Microsoft Elevate UAE Programme Aims To Equip Over 250,000 Individuals With AI Skills

Microsoft recently hosted its AI Tour in Dubai, uniting leaders from various sectors to discuss artificial intelligence's role in driving innovation and growth in the UAE. The event showcased how organisations are leveraging AI to create real-world impacts through keynotes, developer experiences, and customer showcases.

During the event, Microsoft announced the launch of Microsoft Elevate UAE. This initiative aims to expand its global skilling efforts by equipping over 250,000 students, staff, and faculty, along with more than 55,000 government employees, with essential AI skills. The programme is part of Microsoft's commitment to skill one million people in the region by 2027.

The company plans to extend these programmes to all educational institutions across the UAE. This includes reaching 10,000 teachers and 150,000 students in GEMS private schools to integrate AI literacy at all learning levels. "For more than three decades, Microsoft has partnered with the UAE to expand opportunity through technology," said Brad Smith, Microsoft Vice Chair and President.

Smith delivered the opening keynote at AI Tour Dubai and participated in a discussion with Peng Xiao from G42 and Samer Abu-Ltaif from Microsoft EMEA. They explored Microsoft's recent $15.2 billion investment in the UAE. Smith emphasised how this investment combines technology, talent, and trust to enhance the nation's AI infrastructure.

The event also highlighted startup success stories from local entrepreneurs like Takalam, PRYPCO, and Otera. These startups are making strides in mental health platforms, property technology, and enterprise-grade AI solutions. Brad Smith met with these founders to acknowledge their contributions to innovation in the UAE.

Microsoft's collaboration with G42 and JAHIZ aims to train 55,000 federal government employees in AI within a year. This programme focuses on foundational skills and practical applications for public-sector professionals to improve service delivery through AI.

Interactive Sessions for Skill Development

The Dubai edition of Microsoft's global flagship series featured interactive sessions on Copilot, Azure OpenAI Service, and Microsoft Cloud. These sessions allowed developers and business leaders to build practical skills for accelerating AI adoption responsibly.

Amr Kamel, General Manager of Microsoft UAE stated that "AI represents one of the most transformative opportunities of our time." He expressed pride in partnering with visionary entities as they bring Microsoft Elevate UAE into action.

The event served as a platform for showcasing how Microsoft's investments align with the UAE's vision for innovation and inclusive growth. It demonstrated how technology can empower educators with tools like Copilot while preparing students for future challenges.

This initiative reflects Microsoft's ongoing commitment to fostering leadership development programs focused on responsible AI adoption among senior government executives. The company continues contributing towards a future where innovation is accessible to everyone.

With inputs from WAM