The Asia Open RAN Academy (AORA) will run Open RAN Certifications to gauge the level of skills gained by its upcoming ORAN workforce. Participants will undergo thorough testing procedures corresponding to various certification levels – foundational, basic and advanced, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of their knowledge and skills gained in Open RAN. This tiered certification approach fosters a competitive and resilient ecosystem, instilling confidence in the reliability and skills of Open RAN workforce.
The AORA Open RAN Certification entails overseeing a structured process to assess compliance with Open Radio Access Network (RAN) standards of various courses. This certification program is designed to validate skills gained in testing interoperability, security, and performance of Open RAN theories, equipment and solutions across different levels.
This Certification aims to prepare faculty of partner universities’ students for their eventual industry roles – students graduating from academic programs must align with Open RAN certification criteria and are better prepared for their roles in the telecommunications industry. Certification serves as a recognizable indicator of their competence and readiness to contribute to Open RAN deployments.
Ultimately, this Open RAN certification offers academic institutions a pathway to enrich their research, curriculum, and collaborations, aligning their programs with industry needs. By actively participating in the certification processes, academic institutions can position themselves at the forefront of telecommunications education and research. Their students will have a competitive advantage and confidence to accelerate the deployment of open, interoperable, secured, flexible, and cost-effective telecommunications infrastructure through distinct levels of certification.
Certification Exams will be implemented in partnership with the Philippine National I.T. Standards (PhilNITS) Foundation, Inc. PhilNITS Foundation, Inc. stands as a pivotal institution in the landscape of Information Technology (IT) standards and certifications within the Philippines, fostering a strong link with the Japanese market. Established with a dedicated mission to elevate IT professionalism standards domestically, PhilNITS has cultivated a strategic partnership with Japanese counterparts. Leveraging this collaboration, PhilNITS facilitates the adaptation and adoption of Japanese IT standards and methodologies, aligning the competencies of Filipino IT professionals with global best practices, particularly those prevalent in the Japanese market. This partnership not only enhances the skills and expertise of IT practitioners but also strengthens the Philippines’ position as a reliable partner for Japanese companies seeking skilled IT talent. Through its initiatives, PhilNITS not only contributes to the growth and innovation of the Philippine IT industry but also fosters mutually beneficial relationships with international partners, particularly in Japan.
- Undergoing the various courses in the RLH platform ensures an Expanded Skillset that will earn him/her a Competitive Edge career opportunities that sets professionals apart in the competitive telecommunications industry.
- Career Advancement: Open RAN certification enhances Enhanced Employability: Certification validates skills in deploying, managing, and troubleshooting Open RAN networks, increasing employability in diverse roles.
- Global Opportunities: Certification facilitates global mobility, allowing professionals to pursue opportunities in regions where Open RAN technology is being adopted, fostering a dynamic and international career path.
- Professional Networking: Certification programs often facilitate networking opportunities with industry experts, fellow certified professionals, and potential employers, allowing individuals to expand their professional network and stay updated on industry trends and opportunities.
- Access to Specialized Opportunities: Certified professionals may gain access to specialized job roles, projects, or contracts related to Open RAN deployment, optimization, or integration, which may offer higher earning potential and career growth opportunities.
- ORAN Certified individuals will be included in the AORA Resource Pool that will be shared to all AORA Partners in the Philippines and abroad.
- Eligibility Check: Potential applicants should be a graduate of ECE and or any ICT related courses and completed the course in the Rakuten Learning Hub.
- Registration: Individuals interested in obtaining Open RAN certification should submit the necessary personal and organizational details and completing this registration form
- Submission of Required Documents: Applicants are required to submit relevant documentation, such as academic transcripts, resumes, and proof of professional experience. You are required to attach these to the GForm and bring the original during the exam day for validation.
- Payment of Fees: Applicants are required to pay the amount of Php1,000 if your institution is an AORA Partner and Php3,000 if not.
- Preparation for Examination: Once registered, applicants will be given access to the RLH eLearning platform and will be invited to attend the review sessions on April 24, May 29 and June 5. They will also receive study materials or guidelines for exam preparation. This may include recommended readings, practice exams, or training sessions to ensure candidates are well-prepared for the certification assessment.
- Taking the Exam: On the scheduled date, applicants take the certification exam, which could be in the form of written tests, practical assessments, or a combination of both. The exam evaluates the candidate’s understanding of Open RAN principles, standards, and practical application.
- Results and Certification Issuance: Following the examination, the certifying body reviews the results and notifies applicants of their performance 30 days after the exam. Successful candidates receive official certification, acknowledging their achievement in meeting the Open RAN standards and will be included in AORA’s Resource Pool.
- Continuous Certification Maintenance: AORA certification programs require ongoing professional development and maintenance activities to ensure that certified individuals stay current with evolving industry standards. This may involve periodic re-certification or participation in continuing education activities.
- June 12, 2024 for the Foundational and Basic ORAN Certification
- August 26, 2024 for the Advanced certification
