Microsoft and LinkedIn announce new job skill program

Microsoft and LinkedIn have jointly announced the launch of their Skills for Jobs program, which aims to provide free access to 350 courses and six new Career Essentials Certificates for in-demand jobs in the digital economy. Additionally, the companies will offer 50,000 LinkedIn Learning scholarships to help individuals enhance their skills.

According to Microsoft, the program has already engaged 14 million learners in Asia through LinkedIn, with 7.3 million learners coming from India. The top LinkedIn Learning Pathways in India include Critical Soft Skills, Software Developer, Data Analyst, Financial Analyst, Project Manager, and Customer Service Specialist.

The company stated that it has been actively investing in initiatives to train India’s youth, particularly those in underserved communities and aiming to increase the participation of women in the workforce. With the new commitment to equipping another 10 million individuals globally with relevant skills, Microsoft aims to make tech skills accessible to all, fostering employment opportunities and encouraging innovation.

The Career Essentials Certificates provided by the program are designed to help learners progress from basic digital literacy to advanced technical skills training and obtain certifications that enhance their employability. Upon completion of a learning pathway, learners will receive a LinkedIn badge, which serves as proof of their certification and skill proficiency to prospective employers.

All courses are available on LinkedIn’s website opportunity.linkedin.com. Additionally, Microsoft-developed courses can be accessed through Microsoft Community Training (MCT) and downloaded for use with other Learning Management Systems (LMS) for nonprofit partners.

To ensure inclusivity, the new courses and certificates will be offered in seven languages, including English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Simplified Chinese, and Japanese. This expansion aligns with Microsoft’s commitment to promoting economic opportunities that provide everyone around the world with equal access to skills, technology, and opportunity.