Microsoft has announced its new introduction course on Artificial Intelligence will be available for free. 

According to the company’s Work Trend survey, the rapidly evolving technology is already used by one in five (21%) of workers and most of those who do not (67%) said they would like to. 

To help them, Microsoft has designed a National AI skilling programme it describes as an “opportunity to develop… AI fluency and skills for an AI future”. 

The six week ‘Introduction to AI’ course will be delivered through live virtual sessions and anyone over the age of 18 can sign up. 

Once completed, participants should have the “foundational knowledge, skills and competencies” to engage with the technology. 

Those who want to, can also take an exam at the end if they wish to receive a Professional Certificate. 

Minister for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation Dara Calleary described the new initiative as “very welcome”. 

“The use and deployment of AI can bring with it huge benefits and efficiencies for society and the economy, but if we are to seize those opportunities, we must be prepared for them and a key part of that is education and upskilling,” he said. 

“This Government recognises how critical it is for Government, industry and the education sector to work closely together to rapidly expand access to digital and AI skills.    

“I commend Microsoft for playing their part in ensuring that we are building public awareness and informed decision making in order to use AI for our collective good.”

Future

Microsoft Ireland Site Leader James O’Connor said AI has “tremendous potential” and demand for it as a workplace skill is increasing. 

“At Microsoft we believe that AI-enabled innovation will generate economic and societal opportunities for communities and economies right across the globe and here in Ireland we must be ready to take advantage of this opportunity,” he said. 

“The ability to work alongside and utilise AI technology effectively and ethically in the workplace is becoming an essential skill for many jobs.

“By rolling out our new AI learning programmes, we are empowering people of all ages, backgrounds and experiences to gain the analytical, creative thinking and technical skills that are necessary to participate fully in an AI-enabled economy.”

Concerns have been raised that AI has the potential to wipe out humanity as the technology evolves. 

The first global summit on AI regulation is due to be held in London next month.  

Main image: Microsoft launches National AI Skilling Programme. Picture by: Microsoft.