Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has announced plans to train 2 million Indians in artificial intelligence (AI) skills by 2025. This initiative, called ADVANTA(I)GE INDIA, is part of Microsoft’s Skills for Jobs program, which aims to equip India’s workforce with future-ready skills. The training will be provided to individuals in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, as well as rural areas, to promote inclusive socio-economic progress in the country.
Microsoft will collaborate with governments, nonprofit and corporate organizations, and communities to execute the plan. The company will partner with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and 10 state governments to offer basic and advanced AI training to 500,000 students and job seekers. Additionally, 100,000 women will receive in-depth AI technical skills training in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
To raise awareness on responsible AI use and AI-enabled careers, Microsoft plans to train an additional 400,000 students in remote and tribal regions of India. The company will also train 250,000 government officers on essential knowledge of GenAI through its partnership with the National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building. This collaboration aims to enhance productivity and bring digital governance to rural India.
Furthermore, Microsoft’s upcoming Nonprofit Leaders Summit in April 2024 will provide AI fluency and technical skills training to 750,000 Indians. The company is committed to empowering individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the AI-driven world.
During his visit to India, Satya Nadella also urged authorities in both India and the US to work together in framing norms to regulate the AI space. He emphasized the importance of consensus in ensuring the equal distribution of economic growth facilitated by the global diffusion of AI.
Addressing concerns about job losses due to AI-led automation, Nadella expressed confidence in India’s ability to effectively manage the transition to AI by leveraging policies and tools in a positive manner.
The emergence of AI, especially generative AI, has attracted significant investment in India. Over 70 generative AI startups in the country have raised more than $440 million since 2019. This trend highlights the growing potential and wide range of applications for AI technology.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s initiative to train 2 million Indians in AI skills by 2025 demonstrates its commitment to empowering the country’s workforce with future-ready capabilities. By imparting AI skills to individuals in various regions and partnering with government and nonprofit organizations, Microsoft aims to unlock inclusive socio-economic progress. The company’s efforts align with the growing demand for AI talent in India and the need to ensure a smooth transition to an AI-driven future.
