Microsoft to train govt officials in AI, cloud computing skills

Microsoft India today launched the Digital Governance Tech Tour, a national programme to deliver critical artificial intelligence (AI) and intelligent cloud computing skills to government officials.

The initiative includes a series of physical and virtual workshops and aims to train 5,000 personnel over 12 months, Microsoft said in a statement. 

Microsoft will help upskill government officials and equip them with digital skills and experience to successfully deploy cloud-based solutions, the statement added.

“For our country, the power of AI, cloud services and data analytics need to be brought to bear in core sectors for inclusive economic growth.  As we move beyond pilots and understand how to scale AI implementation and cloud adoption across states and sectors, it is vital to equip the ecosystem with the right know-how and skills. Collaboration with academia and industry, and initiatives such as this will help build the foundation towards an AI-enabled future,” said Amitabh Kant, chief executive officer, NITI Aayog.

The programme will be open to technocrats and IT professionals across the ecosystem including employees of public sector undertakings, government partners as well as solutions/systems integrators.

“AI and the cloud can enable path-breaking innovation and drive the next phase of India's growth. Continuous focus on learning and improving skillsets for all is a must to make this a reality. Microsoft's first-of-its-kind Digital Governance Tech Tour for government officials reiterates our commitment to be a trusted partner to the government by enabling and empowering officials to do more with technology in service of the citizens,” said Anant Maheshwari, president, Microsoft India.