Ministry of Communications, Microsoft Launch Center of Excellence

Ministry of Communications and Information Technology of KSA and Microsoft have announced the establishment of the Center of Excellence. This strategic move actively contributes to the Future Skills initiative, aiming to empower the Kingdom’s digital capabilities. The initiative aims to prepare a new, aware, creative generation with advanced skills for the digital era. This aligns with the objectives of the National Transformation Program and Vision 2030, aiming to meet the digital knowledge needs and labor market requirements.

This significant announcement was made on the sidelines of LEAP 2024, a conference that gathers the world’s leading innovators, technology experts, and industry leaders. The conference highlights the latest developments in the tech world, making it an appropriate platform for such a groundbreaking announcement.

Launching Center of Excellence Reflects Microsoft’s Commitment

This initiative reaffirms Microsoft’s commitment to empowering the current and future workforce in the Kingdom. Moreover, it allows them to maximize the benefits of the latest cloud computing and artificial intelligence technologies. This is part of Microsoft’s investment in establishing a new cloud datacenter region in Saudi Arabia. Even before its official launch, the Microsoft data center will stimulate digital innovation and economic growth. Besides, it will equip Saudi talents with the latest digital skills for comprehensive use of cloud computing and AI.

 Talent Development & Capacity Building

Furthermore, Microsoft has been actively involved in talent development and capacity building within the Kingdom. This is realized via global initiatives like the Global Skills Program, enabling over 108,000 Saudi professionals to acquire new digital skills. Additionally, In partnership with the Ministry of Education, Microsoft trained over 250,000 teachers. They also reached 5.6 million students through the My School for Coding program in two years. Over 70,000 individuals have benefited from the Microsoft Learn program, completing 18,000 educational paths.

 Deputy Minister’s Statement

Ibrahim Al-Nasser, Deputy Minister for Future Skills and Capacities at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, emphasized that the Center of Excellence is a landmark in the ministry’s efforts. It accelerates digital transformation and the growth of the digital economy in the Kingdom. Center of Excellence enables digital forces to contribute to achieving Vision 2030’s targets for an innovative and knowledge-based economy. There’s a forward-looking approach to working with partners to enhance a prosperous digital future for the Kingdom in line with Vision 2030’s goals.

Objectives of Center of Excellence

The Center of Excellence aims to equip students with technical skills for the labor market and develop the skills of the current workforce. It will include a Cloud Science Academy in collaboration with Spectrum Networks and Tuwaiq Academy. Additionally, these partnerships will offer a wide range of globally recognized, accredited skill paths based on practical experiences. These paths will assist individuals and organizations, from beginners to professionals, in gaining a professional edge. Specifically, they will leverage cloud computing, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and generative AI models.

Center of Excellence: Enhancing Digital Skills

Center of Excellence aims to boost digital skills among diverse groups such as students, professionals, developers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. It offers fundamental skills in Azure Cloud applications, infrastructure, data management, AI, and Microsoft 365. Skills in cybersecurity, Power Apps platform, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 are also covered.

 Global Training Programs

Center of Excellence will offer numerous global training programs, including a strategic partnership with King Salman’s Oasis to launch the STEAM Academy. This aims to improve students’ digital skills. It provides access to Microsoft’s top educational and recreational resources, such as Minecraft, and participation in the Imagine Cup. Additionally, Center of Excellence will collaborate with Noon Academy as a strategic knowledge partner. This partnership will offer AI skills programs to help individuals across all sectors enhance their understanding of modern technologies.

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