In a significant move aimed at addressing the global artificial intelligence (AI) skills gap, IBM has made a profound commitment to provide training to two million learners in AI by the end of 2026. This ambitious initiative places a strong emphasis on reaching underrepresented communities, ensuring that AI education is accessible to a diverse range of individuals.
Global Scale Education Initiative
To achieve this remarkable goal, IBM is adopting a multi-faceted approach. The company is expanding its collaborations with universities worldwide, forging partnerships to deliver AI training to adult learners, and launching new coursework on generative AI through IBM SkillsBuild. This initiative builds upon IBM’s existing programs and career-building platforms, aiming to enhance access to AI education and in-demand technical roles.
Closing the Skills Gap
A recent global study conducted by the IBM Institute of Business Value highlights a critical issue: executives estimate that 40% of their workforce will need to reskill over the next three years, particularly those in entry-level positions, due to the implementation of AI and automation. This underscores the growing demand for new roles and skills, with generative AI at the forefront.
“Justina Nixon-Saintil, IBM Vice President & Chief Impact Officer, emphasized the importance of AI skills, stating, ‘AI skills will be essential to tomorrow’s workforce.’ She added that IBM is investing in AI training, committing to reach two million learners within three years, and expanding IBM SkillsBuild to collaborate with universities and nonprofits worldwide to provide generative AI education.”
University Collaborations
IBM’s collaboration with universities globally is a cornerstone of this effort. University faculty will have access to IBM-led training, including lectures and immersive skilling experiences. Upon completion, participants will receive certificates. Moreover, IBM will provide courseware for faculty to use in classrooms, offering self-directed AI learning paths.
Empowering Learners
IBM is also extending flexible and adaptable resources to students, including free online courses on generative AI and Red Hat open source technologies. Through IBM SkillsBuild, learners worldwide can access AI education developed by IBM experts, staying updated on the latest technology developments.
Existing free coursework in AI fundamentals, chatbots, and AI ethics will be complemented by the new generative AI curriculum, covering topics such as Prompt-Writing, Getting Started with Machine Learning, Improving Customer Service with AI, and Generative AI in Action.
AI-Enhanced Features
IBM SkillsBuild will introduce AI-enhanced features to enhance the learning experience. This includes improvements to chatbots for learner support and personalized learning paths based on individual preferences and experiences.
Recognized Credentials
All these courses are entirely free and available to learners worldwide. Upon completion, participants will have the opportunity to earn IBM-branded digital credentials, which are highly recognized by potential employers.
Continued Commitment
This initiative builds upon IBM’s existing commitment to upskill 30 million individuals by 2030. Since 2021, over 7 million learners have enrolled in IBM courses, demonstrating the impact of such educational endeavors.
The global skills gap poses a substantial challenge to the widespread application of AI and digitalization across industries, transcending the domain of technology experts. IBM’s legacy of investing in the future of work includes providing free online learning opportunities, clear pathways to employment, and a focus on historically underrepresented communities in the tech sector, where the skills gap is more pronounced.
In summary, IBM’s commitment to training two million learners in AI and generative AI is a bold step towards addressing the global skills gap, promoting diversity in AI education, and equipping individuals with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world.
