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Empowering the Next Generation: The AI Skills Passport Initiative

In a progressive move to address the skills gap in artificial intelligence (AI), Ernst & Young (EY) and Microsoft recently unveiled the AI Skills Passport (AISP). This initiative targets students aged 16 and older, offering free access to essential AI knowledge necessary for success in today’s technology-driven economy.

The Importance of AI Skills

The digital transformation has accelerated the demand for AI skills in the workforce, with a staggering increase of 2,000% in job postings that require such expertise. Despite this, a survey conducted by EY and TeachAI revealed that only 15% of Generation Z feels adequately prepared by existing educational frameworks to engage with AI technologies. The AI Skills Passport aims to change this narrative by providing a comprehensive learning resource to bridge the existing gap.

Course Overview

The AI Skills Passport is structured as a free online course that spans a total of 10 hours, allowing participants to learn at their own pace. The curriculum encompasses various fundamental aspects of AI, including its ethical considerations and applications across diverse sectors such as business, sustainability, and technology. Upon completing the course, participants receive a certificate from EY and Microsoft, enhancing their resumes and opening the door to further learning opportunities.

Global Reach and Expansion Plans

As of now, the AI Skills Passport has been successfully launched in several countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, India, and Australia, among others. The program's multination expansion plans are set to reach more territories by 2025, with additional translations into five languages to cater to a broader audience.

Complementary Initiatives

The AI Skills Passport is part of a broader collaboration between EY and Microsoft focusing on social impact. Other notable initiatives include the Entrepreneurship for Positive Impact program, which supports tech-savvy entrepreneurs working on critical global challenges, and the Green Skills Passport program designed to help students gain competencies for careers in the green economy.

Moreover, the Future Skills Workshops aim to empower underserved youth by equipping them with crucial knowledge to navigate a rapidly evolving digital landscape. The latest module, emphasizing AI, is set to launch in Latin America, reinforcing the commitment of both organizations to foster inclusivity and innovation.

Voices Behind the Program

Gillian Hinde, the EY Global Corporate Responsibility Leader, expressed the initiative's significance, stating, "The EY and Microsoft collaboration is a powerful example of how organizations can come together to help drive meaningful social change and help shape the future with confidence."

Similarly, Kate Behncken, Global Head of Microsoft Philanthropies, highlighted the initiative’s goal of enhancing employability for young individuals: "By bridging the gap between education and employability, we're creating opportunities for the next generation to contribute, innovate, and thrive in the new AI economy."

Conclusion

In conclusion, the AI Skills Passport marks a significant step forward in preparing the youth for an AI-driven future. With a shared vision to impact one billion lives by 2030, EY and Microsoft are setting a strong precedent for educational and social initiatives. The AI Skills Passport not only aims to empower young people but also reinforces the notion of lifelong learning in an ever-evolving digital landscape. For anyone interested in exploring this program further, detailed information can be found on the EY and Microsoft websites.