Microsoft launches a new free course for honing generative AI skills

Microsoft has recently introduced a novel AI training program via LinkedIn’s training platform as a part of its Skills for Jobs initiative. The tech giant aims to offer learners the opportunity to acquire the first Professional Certificate on Generative AI within the online learning market by providing complimentary courses developed by LinkedIn. The curriculum will encompass fundamental AI concepts along with responsible AI frameworks.

In a blog post on LinkedIn, Kate Behncken, Corporate Vice President of Microsoft Philanthropies, highlights the inclusion of several key initiatives within the framework. These include the introduction of the first Professional Certificate on Generative AI in the online learning sphere, a novel open global grant challenge in collaboration with data.org to foster innovative approaches in training personnel on generative AI, and enhanced accessibility to free digital learning events and resources aimed at boosting AI proficiency for all individuals.

The Microsoft AI Skills Initiative includes new, free coursework developed with LinkedIn, including the first Professional Certificate on Generative AI in the online learning market; a new open global grant challenge in coordination with data.org to uncover new ways of training workers on generative AI; and greater access to free digital learning events and resources for everyone to improve their AI fluency, the blog post added.

The Professional Certificate on Generative AI is presently accessible in English and will soon roll out in Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Simplified Chinese, and Japanese on LinkedIn Learning.

Furthermore, the company is set to introduce a trainer toolkit tailored for educators, encompassing easily downloadable and digestible content for trainers. Additionally, an AI course has been designed for teachers and other trainers.

Microsoft has also revealed an exciting open grant program for AI to elevate historically marginalized communities. The Generative AI Skills Grant Challenge is a collaborative effort between data.org, Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab, and GitHub. The program aims to explore, develop, and implement strategies for training and empowering the workforce in effectively utilizing generative AI, specifically within nonprofit organizations, social enterprises, as well as research and academic institutions.

Beneficiaries of the grant will not only receive financial support but also benefit from group learning opportunities, data training, and guidance, along with access to Microsoft events and cloud-computing resources. Applications for the grant program are currently being accepted, and the deadline for submission is August 15th.

Via Linkedin