“As AI is changing the way we work and the nature of jobs, we have a responsibility to ensure graduates are prepared for the workplace of tomorrow,” says Jean-Philippe Courtois, Executive Vice President and President, Global Sales, Marketing and Operations at Microsoft. “We are excited to partner with OpenClassrooms to help equip people with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive in the digital economy.” According to Microsoft, as per an estimate as many as 30% of AI and data skills jobs will be left open due to shortage of AI talent skills. With demand for AI skills exceeding supply, the new program aims to prepare skilled labor and give employers access to highly talented candidates. “The collaboration is designed to provide more students with access to education to learn in-demand skills and to qualify for high-tech jobs, while giving employers access to great talent to fill high-tech roles,” Microsoft said in the announcement blog post. OpenClassrooms will construct the masters-level online program based on Microsoft’s content and project-specific tasks tailored to the AI roles that employers are looking to fill. This is a fully online program that is designed to produce high-quality graduates. This model aids students and employers, who gain a cost-efficient pipeline for recruiting new talent. “The demand for AI and machine learning opportunities has never been stronger,” says OpenClassrooms co-founder and CEO Pierre Dubuc. “We’re excited to be an innovation partner to Microsoft to usher in new tactics that will bring top talent to the workforce.” OpenClassrooms will be recruiting 1,000 promising candidates throughout France, the U.K., and the U.S. for this program. Students who manage to complete the program have been guaranteed a job within six months or they will receive a full refund from OpenClassrooms. They will also earn a masters-level diploma accredited in Europe through OpenClassrooms. The company is actively looking for accreditation in the UK and U.S. Source: Microsoft
