Microsoft Launches Generative AI Certification Program
Despite Big Tech’s ongoing efforts to navigate the ethical and practical aspects of generative AI, the technology is already being incorporated into various industries. In light of this, Microsoft has introduced a new program aimed at training individuals in AI. This initiative, available through LinkedIn, will provide free coursework and certification. The irony lies in the fact that generative AI is designed to be user-friendly, automating content creation using everyday language. However, these courses could still offer valuable insights on crafting effective prompts, serving as a helpful resource for beginners to adapt to our rapidly evolving world.
Microsoft’s AI Skills Initiative, part of the company’s Skills for Jobs program, includes free courses created by (a Microsoft subsidiary) LinkedIn that offer students “the first generative AI professional certificate in the online learning market.” Microsoft says the courses cover introductory AI concepts and “responsible AI frameworks,” culminating in certification. It will only be released in English, but the company says it will add Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Simplified Chinese, and Japan “in the coming months.”
In addition, the company is launching an educator toolkit for educators, with “downloadable, small content for educators” and a separate AI course for teachers and other educators.
Microsoft also announced an open AI grant program aimed at empowering historically marginalized populations. The Generative AI Skills Grant Challenge is a collaboration between data.org, Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab, and GitHub. It aims to “research, develop and implement how non-profits, social enterprises and research or academic institutions can educate and empower the workforce to use generative AI”. Grantees will receive financial support, group learning opportunities, data training/mentoring, and access to Microsoft events and cloud computing resources. The grant program is now accepting applications until August 15. You can read more and apply here.
