EY and Microsoft Empower India’s Youth with Free AI Skills Passport to Build a Smarter Future

Mumbai – In a landmark move to strengthen India’s digital future and prepare its workforce for the era of artificial intelligence (AI), EY and Microsoft have jointly launched the AI Skills Passport, a free, globally accessible online learning initiative.

The program is designed to empower Indian students and early-career professionals aged 16 and above with vital AI skills — ensuring they are equipped to thrive in an increasingly tech-driven global economy.

This initiative, part of EY’s global corporate responsibility program EY Ripples, aims to bridge India’s growing AI skills gap by making high-quality AI education accessible to all. The program builds on EY and Microsoft’s shared vision to democratize digital literacy and support sustainable economic growth through technology and skill development.

A Global Effort with Local Impact

The AI Skills Passport is not limited to India — it is part of a global initiative that has already engaged over 40,000 participants across multiple countries.

However, the India-focused rollout is especially significant, given the nation’s role as one of the fastest-growing digital economies in the world. India’s youthful population, strong IT ecosystem, and innovation potential make it a key player in the global AI landscape.

Through this program, learners gain access to self-paced online modules spanning approximately 10 hours, available in both English and Hindi. This bilingual approach ensures inclusivity, enabling learners from diverse linguistic and educational backgrounds to benefit equally.

Comprehensive and Practical Curriculum

The AI Skills Passport offers a well-rounded learning experience that combines theoretical understanding with real-world applications. The curriculum covers essential topics such as:

• AI Fundamentals – Understanding what AI is, how it works, and its impact on industries.
• Responsible AI – Exploring ethical considerations, transparency, and bias management.
• Sectoral Applications – Demonstrating how AI transforms industries like healthcare, finance, and technology.
• Career Readiness – Offering practical support such as resume building, interview preparation, and networking guidance.

Participants who successfully complete the course are awarded a verifiable digital badge, which can be added to their professional profiles on platforms like LinkedIn. This certification not only validates their skills but also enhances employability in a market increasingly shaped by automation and AI.

Promoting Inclusion and Equal Opportunity

EY and Microsoft have also partnered with non-profit organisations to ensure that students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds can access mentorship, learning resources, and career guidance. This inclusive approach reflects the companies’ commitment to bridging the digital divide and ensuring that India’s AI revolution benefits everyone, not just those with privileged access to technology.

By targeting learners as young as 16, the initiative helps students and young professionals prepare early for future opportunities in AI-related fields. It nurtures curiosity, innovation, and problem-solving — qualities essential for shaping the next generation of tech leaders.

Leaders’ Vision for a Digital India

Monesh Dange, Partner and Leader, Alliances and Ecosystems at EY India, emphasized the transformative nature of the initiative, stating:

“In an era where AI is revolutionising work, the AI Skills Passport addresses India’s urgent need for skilled talent. Together with Microsoft, we aim to ensure the program is accessible and impactful at scale.”

Similarly, Bhaskar Basu, Enterprise Partnerships Leader at Microsoft India & South Asia, highlighted the broader mission behind the collaboration:

“AI is transforming India’s digital economy, and youth are at its core. The AI Skills Passport brings high-quality AI learning to everyone, accelerating Microsoft’s goal to equip 10 million Indians with AI skills by 2030.”

Building a Future-Ready Workforce

The AI Skills Passport initiative comes at a time when the global demand for AI expertise is soaring. With automation, machine learning, and data-driven decision-making reshaping every sector, India’s ability to cultivate a skilled AI workforce is crucial not only for its domestic economy but also for the global technology ecosystem.

By combining EY’s expertise in professional learning and Microsoft’s leadership in AI innovation, the initiative underscores how strategic collaborations can drive large-scale social and economic transformation.

As India continues its rapid digital evolution, the AI Skills Passport stands out as a beacon of empowerment — offering young learners the knowledge, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive in a smarter, AI-enabled world.