IBM has partnered with institutions to provide free AI training to 4,500 youth

23 Aug 2024

More adults and students will have access to free online training in AI and other technology topics by end-2025, global tech company IBM said on Aug 23. It announced a collaboration with RP, SP and training provider Junior Achievement (JA) to use and adapt lessons from 1,000 tech-related courses on the IBM SkillsBuild platform for an estimated 4,500 students and adult learners over one year. SkillsBuild, which was launched in 2021, offers free courses as part of IBM’s goal to provide online training to 30 million people globally by 2030. SP will be tapping SkillsBuild’s AI, data and cyber-security courses to support learning for its computing courses, while RP plans to introduce the platform’s courses into its curriculum, specifically to train students in data science and AI skills, among other topics. Both polytechnics will also explore using the resources in common curriculum modules to ensure all students are well versed in the usage and programming of AI. SP’s deputy principal, Mr Loh Yew Chiong, said the online courses can be utilised as quizzes for lecturers to keep track of students’ understanding of AI subjects. Students will be encouraged to complete AI or other courses to attain IBM’s professional certifications, which will help to enhance their portfolios when applying for jobs, he said. RP chief technology officer Fong Yew Chan said IBM SkillsBuild provides plenty of useful material that adds on to the school’s curriculum.[Lianhe Zaobao]