EY and Microsoft Join Forces to Equip Next Generation with AI Skills
In a groundbreaking partnership, the EY organization and Microsoft have unveiled the AI Skills Passport (AISP), a revolutionary program designed to empower students aged 16 and older with the essential skills needed to navigate the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its applications across various industries and careers. This free online initiative is part of a larger social impact collaboration aimed at supporting young individuals, especially those facing barriers to opportunity, in developing the AI competencies crucial for success in today’s AI-driven economy.
The Demands of the AI Economy: A Growing Discrepancy
Recent research from Randstad has shown a staggering 2,000% surge in demand for AI skills in job postings, underlining the critical need for individuals to possess these competencies in the modern workforce. However, a survey conducted by EY and TeachAI, with the backing of Microsoft, revealed a concerning statistic—only 15% of Gen Z respondents feel adequately prepared by their educational institutions or employers for the implications of AI and the practical use of AI tools. This glaring gap in readiness highlights the urgency of initiatives like the AISP in equipping the next generation with the requisite AI skills to thrive.
Bridging the Gap: The AI Skills Passport Initiative
The AI Skills Passport program offers participants a comprehensive 10-hour online course accessible through web and mobile platforms, enabling learners to delve into key AI topics at their own pace. From understanding the fundamentals of AI to exploring ethical considerations and its applications in business, sustainability, and technology careers, the course equips individuals with a holistic understanding of AI’s impact on various sectors. Upon completion, participants receive a prestigious certificate from EY and Microsoft, enhancing their resumes and granting access to additional learning and employment resources to further their AI journey.
Global Reach and Impact: A Worldwide Rollout
The collaboration between EY and Microsoft has seen the successful implementation of the AI Skills Passport course in multiple countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, India, Italy, Greece, and more. With plans for expansion to additional nations and translations into five languages by 2025, the initiative is set to reach a diverse global audience, empowering individuals worldwide with the AI skills needed for success in the digital age.
Empowering Entrepreneurs and Job Seekers: Supporting AI-Driven Futures
In addition to the AI Skills Passport program, the partnership between EY and Microsoft encompasses a range of impactful initiatives aimed at empowering job seekers and entrepreneurs for an AI-driven future. Programs like Microsoft Entrepreneurship for Positive Impact and EY and Microsoft Green Skills Passport provide essential support and resources to individuals looking to thrive in the evolving green economy and tech-first entrepreneurial landscape. The Future Skills Workshops offered by EY further upskill underserved groups, equipping them with the knowledge needed to navigate a rapidly changing world.
Expert Voices: Driving Social Change Through Collaboration
Gillian Hinde, EY Global Corporate Responsibility Leader, emphasizes the transformative power of the EY and Microsoft collaboration in driving meaningful social change and shaping a confident future. Kate Behncken, Global Head of Microsoft Philanthropies, underscores the importance of bridging the gap between education and employability to create opportunities for the next generation in the burgeoning AI economy. Together, these leaders highlight the significance of equipping individuals with the AI skills necessary to succeed in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
As organizations like EY and Microsoft continue to spearhead initiatives that empower individuals with AI skills, the future of work and education stands poised for a transformative shift. Through innovative programs like the AI Skills Passport, the next generation is primed to harness the potential of AI, contribute meaningfully to society, and thrive in the dynamic landscape of the digital age.
For more information on the EY-Microsoft AI Skills Passport program, visit the official website to explore the opportunities and resources available to aspiring AI enthusiasts and professionals.
Kevin is a forward-thinking media executive with more than 25 years of experience building brands and audiences online, in print, and face to face. He is an acclaimed writer, editor, and commentator covering the intersection of society and technology, especially education technology. You can reach Kevin at KevinHogan@eschoolnews.com.
