As part of its 'Skills for Jobs' program, Microsoft has launched a significant skilling initiative in India named ADVANTA(I)GE INDIA. The goal is to provide AI skills to 2 million individuals by 2025, contributing to the empowerment of India's workforce with skills essential for the future. Aligned with Microsoft's responsible AI principles, this initiative aims to accelerate the country's AI transformation. The training will be conducted in collaboration with government bodies, nonprofit organizations, corporate partners, and communities.
During his current visit to India, Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella revealed plans to provide AI skills to 2 million individuals in the country by 2025. As per Microsoft's latest Work Trend Index, 90% of Indian leaders believe that their hires will require new skills to adapt to the expanding influence of AI. Additionally, 78% of Indian workers express a lack of appropriate AI capabilities for their existing job responsibilities.
To bridge the skills gap, ADVANTA(I)GE INDIA will concentrate on providing training to individuals in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, along with rural regions. This approach aims to empower people to engage in the emerging AI era, fostering inclusive socio-economic development. Puneet Chandok, President of Microsoft India and South Asia, emphasized that the ADVANTA(I)GE INDIA initiative is a substantial move towards making AI skills accessible nationwide, showcasing Microsoft's strong dedication to promoting inclusive growth through technology.
In the implementation of ADVANTA(I)GE INDIA, Microsoft is set to collaborate with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship in India, along with 10 state governments. The partnership aims to offer both fundamental and advanced AI training to 500,000 students and job seekers across 100 vocational education institutions and training centers in rural areas. This initiative builds upon Microsoft's ongoing partnership with the ministry, focusing on the training of youth in digital and cybersecurity skills.
