Noida, India — In a significant move to prepare India’s youth for an AI-driven future, EY and Microsoft have jointly launched the AI Skills Passport. This initiative aims to equip young professionals with the essential skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market where artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly prevalent.

The AI Skills Passport is designed as a comprehensive digital credential that will help individuals showcase their AI skills to potential employers. By offering a structured learning path, the program seeks to bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also job-ready. With India facing a skills gap in the tech sector, this initiative could be a critical step in addressing the needs of the workforce.

According to a report by the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM), India will need around 14 million skilled professionals in AI and data science by 2026 to meet the demands of the industry. However, there is a significant shortfall in the current talent pool, with many graduates lacking practical experience and up-to-date knowledge in these fields. EY and Microsoft’s initiative comes at a time when the Indian government has also been emphasizing the importance of digital skills in its education policy.

Participants in the AI Skills Passport program will have access to a variety of learning resources, including online courses, hands-on projects, and mentorship opportunities. The program is expected to cater primarily to students and recent graduates, providing them with a platform to learn from industry experts and gain practical experience. This could be particularly beneficial in a country where youth unemployment remains a pressing issue.

According to a report by the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM), India will need around 14 million skilled professionals in AI and data science by 2026 to meet the demands of the industry.

The collaboration between EY and Microsoft is not just about skills training; it also embodies a broader vision of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among young Indians. By equipping them with AI skills, the program aims to empower the next generation to create their own opportunities and drive economic growth.

Industry experts have lauded the initiative, noting that it reflects a growing recognition of the need for continuous learning in the face of technological advancements. “The job landscape is changing rapidly, and traditional education systems are struggling to keep pace. Programs like the AI Skills Passport are essential in ensuring that young people can adapt and thrive in this new environment,” said Ranjit Singh, a technology analyst at TechNavio.

Moreover, the initiative aligns with global trends where companies are increasingly looking for candidates with specific technical skills rather than just academic qualifications. A survey by LinkedIn found that 92% of talent professionals believe that soft skills are equally or more important than hard skills in hiring decisions. The AI Skills Passport not only focuses on technical training but also emphasizes the development of critical soft skills such as problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.

As companies around the world continue to adopt AI technologies, the demand for skilled professionals in this area is expected to surge. According to the World Economic Forum, AI could create 97 million new jobs globally by 2025, but it also poses a risk of displacing many existing roles. The challenge for India, therefore, is to ensure that its workforce is prepared to meet these changing demands.

Looking ahead, the success of the AI Skills Passport will depend on its ability to adapt to the dynamic nature of technology and the job market. Continuous updates to the curriculum and collaboration with industry leaders will be crucial in keeping the program relevant. Furthermore, as the initiative gains traction, it may inspire similar programs in other countries, promoting a global standard for AI skills training.

The AI Skills Passport not only focuses on technical training but also emphasizes the development of critical soft skills such as problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.

In a landscape where AI is reshaping industries, the AI Skills Passport could serve as a vital tool for young professionals aiming to carve out successful careers. By investing in skills development today, India has the potential to emerge as a global leader in the AI economy.