Microsoft launches AI skills training initiative

Microsoft has launched a new AI skills training initiative that will include free coursework developed in collaboration with LinkedIn.

The AI Skills Initiative, part of the Microsoft’s Skills for Jobs program, also includes a new grant challenge for organisations to create new ways of training employees in generative AI.

Microsoft and LinkedIn have launched a new learning pathway to provide free introductory generative AI learning content, including material designed to teach workers introductory concepts of AI.

Participants will be awarded a new Career Essentials certificate upon completion, the first professional certificate on Generative AI from the online learning market.

Meanwhile, the open grant program is being provided by Microsoft and its AI for Good Lab, as well as data.org and GitHub. The global grant will support organisations driving skilling and economic growth.

Awardees will be provided with financial support, as well as access to Microsoft events, Azure-based cloud computing resources and data training and technical guidance from Microsoft and GitHub experts.

Microsoft CTO for ANZ Lee Hickin said research released by the company found that 62% of survey respondents struggle with too much time spent searching for information in their workday., and 70% would delegate as much work as possible to AI to lessen their workloads.

“Artificial Intelligence will help workers in many industries to increase productivity and spend more time on valuable skilled tasks. To make this happen, companies, educational institutions and governments will need to play a role in upskilling the workforce. With a highly educated population, Australia is well positioned to benefit from AI broadly,” he said.

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