Microsoft's AI Initiative Aims to Skill One Million in Australia and New Zealand
Microsoft recently hosted an artificial intelligence (AI) tour in Sydney, attracting 5,000 attendees and showcasing its commitment to fostering AI education across Australia and New Zealand. The company plans to equip one million people with AI skills by collaborating with governments, businesses, schools, and non-profit organizations.
Corporate Vice President Kate Behnscken emphasized that AI proficiency will become essential for all jobs in the future. “AI is transforming how we work, learn, and connect. Our mission is to empower individuals by building their AI capabilities and supporting communities through skill development,” she stated.
To support this mission, Microsoft will offer free tools through its Artificial Intelligence Skills Navigator platform.
Collaborative Initiatives Across Sectors
Steven Worrall, Managing Director for Microsoft Australia and New Zealand, expressed pride in this new initiative. “We will partner with governments, businesses, educational institutions, and not-for-profits on a variety of innovative programs to make this vision a reality,” he said.
Through its AI Academy in collaboration with Akkodis, Microsoft will train businesses across both countries. The company also plans to engage over 20,000 small and medium enterprise leaders to close the AI skills gap, forming alliances with organizations like Business New South Wales and the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
In the public sector, Microsoft will work with national and state agencies to build AI expertise among public servants, expanding on early successes with Microsoft 365 Copilot and the AI Academy program. The Victorian government will also collaborate with Microsoft on initiatives addressing AI, skills development, and cybersecurity.
Australian Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles highlighted the government’s commitment to workforce readiness. “We are ensuring Australians have the skills needed for the jobs of today and tomorrow by investing in vocational training, TAFEs, and modern facilities,” he said.
AI in Education
In schools, Microsoft is helping 12,500 educators within Brisbane Catholic Education integrate Microsoft 365 Copilot into 140 schools. The company also aims to prepare 175,000 students and educators for the workforce of the future.
Addressing AI Challenges
Despite these advancements, challenges remain. A Deloitte survey revealed that only 23% of organizations feel well-prepared for the risks associated with AI, such as regulatory compliance, risk management, and governance—issues highlighted by the EU’s AI Act.
Deloitte’s August 2024 State of Generative AI report found that many organizations struggle to measure the impact of their AI initiatives. Less than half use specific metrics to evaluate generative AI performance, and executives are becoming cautious about AI investments due to uncertain returns.
Psychosocial Impacts of AI
Experts warn of potential psychosocial and health risks from AI integration in workplaces. RMIT’s Dr. Emmanuelle Walkowiak cautioned businesses to assess the psychological impact of AI tools on employees, stressing the need for frameworks to mitigate these risks.
“It’s vital to evaluate how AI systems can affect worker well-being and ensure these technologies enhance both productivity and mental health,” she noted.