18 MARKETWATCH caption... Xernatibus et officto bernam, sum quae. Optatem nim dis eaquunt, Microsoft has made a commitment to invest $4 billion in AI education and training globally over the next five years through its new initiative, Microsoft Elevate. The company will provide support and financial donations to schools and community and technical colleges, as well as nonprofit organisations. The investment comes amid growing concerns regarding the impact of AI and the skills of the future workforce, a challenge worrying many decision makers, organisations and wider society alike. “For a student wondering what to study, a teacher rethinking how to teach, or a business owner managing a workforce – AI is no longer theoretical; it’s personal,” said Brad Smith, vice chair and president of Microsoft in a blog post on the Microsoft website. “It’s why we believe some of the most important work ahead isn’t just building smarter machines – it’s ensuring those machines help people thrive. As AI transforms our world, we’re putting people first by equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and tools to thrive with AI.” Over the next two years, the Microsoft Elevate Academy will provide AI education and skills to 20 million people, equipping them with in-demand AI skills and credentials, from foundational literacy to advanced technical training. To achieve this, Microsoft will collaborate with LinkedIn and GitHub to deliver AI education and skilling at scale. “The conversation about AI and jobs must begin with people – not just productivity,” said Smith. “Machines can process data, but only humans can exercise judgment. Machines can mimic language, but only humans can offer empathy. Machines can optimise, but only humans can care. The goal isn’t to build machines that replace us – it’s to build machines that help us do more and do it better.” Microsoft Elevate will work in close coordination with the Microsoft AI Economy Institute, a corporate think-tank designed to bridge the gap between technological innovation and societal impact through independent research and the development of Microsoft to invest $4 billion in global AI education and training Microsoft Elevate aims to equip up to 20 million people with AI skills, knowledge and tools over the next two years Brad Smith speaking at the Microsoft Elevate launch event in July 2025
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