Microsoft & Govt Launch AI Training Program Across 6 Indian States
In a significant move to empower women in the digital landscape, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has partnered with Microsoft to launch the ‘AI Careers for Women’ initiative. This program offers a comprehensive 240-hour AI training curriculum, along with certifications and career support, specifically designed for women. The aim of this initiative is to strengthen digital skills and create pathways to high-growth careers in the AI industry.
The program, which is expected to benefit over 20,000 women across six Indian states, is a testament to the government’s commitment to promoting digital literacy and encouraging women’s participation in the tech industry. The initiative is particularly significant, considering the growing demand for skilled AI professionals in India, which is expected to reach 1.3 million by 2025.
Under this program, Microsoft and the MSDE will provide women with a comprehensive training program that covers the fundamentals of AI, machine learning, and data science. The curriculum has been designed to equip women with the skills required to work in various AI-related roles, such as data analysts, AI engineers, and machine learning specialists.
What sets this program apart is its focus on women’s empowerment. The initiative aims to bridge the gender gap in the tech industry, which is currently dominated by men. According to a report by the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM), women make up only 30% of the total workforce in the tech industry in India. The ‘AI Careers for Women’ initiative seeks to increase this percentage by providing women with the necessary skills and support to excel in the AI industry.
The program will be rolled out across six Indian states, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana. The training sessions will be conducted by experienced trainers and will include hands-on practical sessions, case studies, and project work to ensure that participants gain a deep understanding of AI concepts.
Upon completion of the training program, participants will be awarded certifications in AI and data science, which will be recognized by the industry. Additionally, the program will provide career support to participants, including job placement assistance, mentorship, and access to a network of industry professionals.
The ‘AI Careers for Women’ initiative is part of Microsoft’s global effort to empower women in technology. The company has launched similar initiatives in several countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, to promote women’s participation in the tech industry.
The Indian government has also been taking steps to promote digital literacy and women’s participation in the tech industry. The government’s ‘Digital India’ initiative aims to promote digital literacy and create a robust digital infrastructure in the country. The ‘AI Careers for Women’ initiative is a significant step towards achieving this goal.
In conclusion, the ‘AI Careers for Women’ initiative is a significant step towards promoting women’s participation in the AI industry and bridging the gender gap in the tech industry. The program’s focus on providing comprehensive training and career support to women is likely to benefit not only the women who participate in the program but also the Indian tech industry as a whole.
