FSO and Microsoft Initiate Major Initiative to Enhance AI Skills in Australia
The Future Skills Organisation and Microsoft have launched the FSO Skills Accelerator-AI, a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing AI skills within Australia’s Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector. This initiative focuses on upskilling both learners and over 30,000 educators and administrators during a 12-month pilot program. By integrating scalable, inclusive, and impactful training into existing educational frameworks, the partnership seeks to address the growing AI skills gap in Australia. With the emergence of generative AI projected to contribute AUD $115 billion to the national economy by 2030, a coordinated effort in education and workforce preparation is essential. Federal Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles emphasised that equipping the workforce with necessary skills is vital for Australia’s future prosperity, highlighting the FSO Skills Accelerator-AI as a prime example of collaboration between industry and the training sector.
The FSO Skills Accelerator-AI will be implemented in collaboration with a diverse range of stakeholders, including training organisations and private sector partners such as TAFE QLD, TAFE SA, Commonwealth Bank, Adobe, and the National AI Centre. This initiative prioritises collaboration and resource sharing among partners, fostering direct engagement between industry and educators. It aims to facilitate the delivery of AI content and professional development activities at scale, with key features including peer learning and ongoing support. Patrick Kidd OBE OAM, CEO of Future Skills Organisation, stated that AI is transforming productivity across industries, and empowering educators and learners with the necessary skills is crucial for thriving in an AI-enabled world. The programme intends to deliver AI training aligned with national standards, ensuring that both educators and learners are well-prepared for an AI-driven future.
Categories: AI Skills Development, Vocational Education and Training, Industry Collaboration
Tags: FSO Skills Accelerator-AI, AI Skills, Vocational Education, Upskilling, Educators, Training Sector, Collaboration, Workforce Preparation, Generative AI, National Standards