Artificial intelligence is reshaping the global job market, but many young professionals feel unprepared for the change. To address this challenge, EY and Microsoft have launched the AI Skills Passport (AISP), a free online program designed to empower learners aged 16+ with essential AI expertise.

The program comes at a critical time. A recent survey by EY and TeachAI revealed that while job postings requiring AI skills have surged by an astounding 2,000%, only 15% of Gen Z respondents feel their education or workplace has adequately equipped them for this new reality.

The AI Skills Passport offers a 10-hour self-paced course accessible via web and mobile, covering key topics such as AI fundamentals, ethical considerations, and practical applications in business, sustainability, and technology. Upon completion, participants receive an EY-Microsoft certificate and gain access to career resources designed to help them thrive in an AI-powered economy.

The initiative is already active in 18 countries, including the U.S., U.K., India, Australia, and China, with plans to expand to additional regions and offer translations into five languages by 2025. This effort is part of EY Ripples’ ambitious goal of positively impacting 1 billion lives by 2030.

A Broader Mission for Impact

The AI Skills Passport is one of several programs launched by EY and Microsoft to prepare the global workforce for emerging challenges:

The Microsoft Green Skills Passport has already trained over 46,000 learners for green economy jobs.
The Future Skills Workshops bring AI training to underserved communities, with a new rollout planned for Latin America.
The Microsoft Entrepreneurship for Positive Impact program supports over 100 tech-first entrepreneurs with financial and ESG strategy guidance.

EY’s Gillian Hinde remarked, “The AI Skills Passport equips young people and underserved communities with the AI experience needed to thrive in today’s digital age.” Kate Behncken, Global Head of Microsoft Philanthropies, added, “Through this initiative, we’re helping young people build the AI skills they need to succeed in the evolving AI economy.”

This program represents a significant step forward in bridging the AI skills gap and creating a more inclusive, AI-ready workforce for the future.