EY and Microsoft Launch AI Skills Passport Initiative | Image Source: Esgnews.com
NEW YORK, February 4, 2025 – In a bold movement to bridge the growing gap between AI, Ernst & Young (EY) and Microsoft’s skills, they jointly launched the AI Skills Passport (AISP), a free online learning program designed to empower young and underserved communities with critical artificial intelligence (AI) skills. This initiative, which is part of its broader social impact collaboration, aims to have a positive impact on more than five million lives by 2025, giving participants the tools to thrive in the innovative economy.
What is the artificial intelligence skills passport?
AI Skills Passport (AISP) is an accessible, flexible and comprehensive online course for people over 16 years of age. Participants can participate in the program at their own pace using web or mobile platforms. The 10-hour course is developed on key IA issues, including IA fundamentals, ethical considerations, and practical applications in industries such as business, sustainability, and technology.
Upon completion, students receive a joint EY and Microsoft certificate, improving their curriculum vitae and opening doors to new educational and work resources. This certificate not only validates your knowledge of artificial intelligence, but also means your willingness to meet the challenges in the modern workplace.
Why is this initiative important?
The urgency of this program is derived from amazing statistics: according to Randstad’s research, the demand for IV skills in jobs was driven by an amazing 2000 %. However, a recent survey of EY and TeachAI, supported by Microsoft, reveals a worrying gap, with only 15% of Gen Z respondents saying that their schools or employers are properly preparing them for the impact of AI on the workforce.
The main mission of ISPA is to address this disparity. By democratizing access to AI, EY and Microsoft education, they aim to bridge the gap between the new demands of the labour market and the current educational landscape.
What does the course cover?
The artificial intelligence skills passport offers a well-completed program designed to be informative and practical. The main modules are:
- Introduction to AI: Understanding what AI is—and what it isn’t.
- Types of AI: Exploring different AI models and their real-world applications.
- Ethical AI: Addressing the ethical challenges and responsibilities tied to AI development.
- AI in Industry: Practical insights into how AI is transforming businesses, sustainability efforts, and technology careers.
- Employability Skills: Guidance on leveraging AI knowledge in job markets, from resume-building to interview techniques.
This comprehensive approach allows participants not only to acquire theoretical knowledge, but also to develop practical skills that can be applied directly in professional environments.
Global scope and expansion plans
Currently, ISPA has been successfully launched in countries around the world, including the United Kingdom, India, Italy, Greece, Belgium, South Africa, Ireland, Switzerland, Cyprus, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, South Africa, Sweden and China. Expansion plans are under way for the implementation of the programme in other countries until 2025, with translations in five languages to be more accessible.
This global footprint reflects the program’s ambition to create a truly inclusive learning environment, reaching diverse communities, regardless of geographic or socio-economic barriers.
Beyond PISA: Other social impact programmes EY-Microsoft
The artificial intelligence skills passport is just one facet of EY and Microsoft’s collaborative efforts to promote skills development and social impact. Its association extends to several high impact programs, including:
- Microsoft Entrepreneurship for Positive Impact: Supporting over 100 tech-first entrepreneurs tackling global challenges through skills labs focused on investment strategies, financial planning, ESG strategies, and business resilience.
- EY and Microsoft Green Skills Passport: A program helping learners aged 16+ acquire skills for green jobs in the growing sustainable economy. Over 46,000 participants have completed this course, paving the way for careers in environmental sustainability.
- Future Skills Workshops (FSW): Targeting young and underserved groups, FSW equips participants with knowledge to navigate the changing world. The newest module, “All About AI,” will soon be launched across Latin America through partnerships with Trust for Americas.
These initiatives collectively contribute to EY Ripples’ ambition to have a positive impact on a billion lives by 2030, with a focus on the transformative power of education and technology.
Expert perspectives on the initiative
The leaders of both organizations expressed their commitment to the programme’s transformation potential. Gillian Hinde, EY Global Corporate Responsibility Leader, said:
“EY and Microsoft collaboration is a powerful example of how organizations can come together to help stimulate meaningful social change and help shape the future with confidence. AI Passport Program aims to provide youth and funded communities with the AI experience needed to thrive in the current digital age, while sharing the skills needed for tomorrow
In choosing this feeling, Kate Behncken, Global Director of Microsoft Philanthropies, added:
“With this new initiative with EY, we are helping young people develop the AI skills they need to succeed in the evolution of the AI economy. By bridging the gap between education and employability, we are creating opportunities for the next generation to contribute, innovate and prosper in the new AI economy.”
How can you get involved?
For those who want to gain a competitive edge in the labour market, entering artificial intelligence skills into the passport is simple. The program is freely accessible online, which requires only an Internet connection and motivation to learn. Whether it’s a student exploring career options or a professional looking for more skills, PISA offers valuable resources to help you stay in an increasingly AI driven world.
In addition, educators and organizations can integrate educational programmes or labour development programmes, thereby increasing their impact on communities and industries.
In a world where AI is reshaping industries and redefining work roles, initiatives such as the AI Skills Passport are more than just educational programs, they are life lines. As IA continues to evolve, it also owes our approach to education and labour preparation. Thanks to the visionary collaboration between EY and Microsoft, the future seems a little brighter, a little smarter and much more inclusive.
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