The ASEAN Foundation, Biji-biji Initiative, and Microsoft have collaborated to launch the AI TEACH Malaysia program, aims to equip TVET educators and students with essential AI skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the digital economy.
The significance of AI in reshaping industries and driving innovation cannot be overstated, with projections indicating its potential to contribute USD 1 trillion to ASEAN’s GDP by 2030. Recognising the transformative power of AI, the AI TEACH program seeks to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the digital landscape.
Teaming up with local nonprofits, workforce institutions, and government entities, AI TEACH endeavors to bolster employment opportunities and educational outcomes for individuals looking to enhance their skillsets. This collaborative initiative seeks to leverage the potential of AI and other cutting-edge technologies, ultimately enhancing economic prospects for the workforce.
With a focus on Indonesia and Malaysia, the AI TEACH for ASEAN program aims to provide AI literacy training to 6,200 TVET educators. In Malaysia, the goal is to train 1,000 educators who will subsequently impart AI skills to 100,000 students, thereby enhancing their employability and educational prospects.
The program will leverage the Microsoft AI Trainer Toolkit to facilitate effective teaching of AI concepts and introduce Microsoft and LinkedIn Career Essentials in Generative AI to students. Upon completion, participants will receive a globally recognised certification, affirming their AI competencies.
To ensure the successful integration of AI skills into the TVET system, several key initiatives will be implemented. These include training-of-trainers sessions, country-level hackathons, and a regional policy-roundtable on AI skilling. Through these efforts, the program aims to foster excitement among educators and policymakers while promoting the adoption of AI education.
Microsoft Malaysia, Managing Director, K Raman emphasised the importance of AI in shaping Malaysia’s future, highlighting the government’s focus on the TVET industry as outlined in the MADANI Budget 2024. He expressed confidence that AI TEACH Malaysia would not only bridge the skills gap but also cultivate a new generation of talent equipped to drive societal progress with AI.
Overseeing the implementation of the program, the ASEAN Foundation will collaborate with Microsoft, while Biji-biji Initiative will spearhead AI TEACH Malaysia with a localized approach tailored to the nation’s unique needs.
Biji-biji Initiative & Mereka, Group Chief Executive Officer, Rashvin Pal Singh expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the collective effort to support inclusive education and opportunities for a brighter future.
The official launch of the AI TEACH Malaysia program marks a significant milestone in Malaysia’s journey towards AI proficiency and economic empowerment. With collaboration at its core, this initiative holds the promise of unlocking the full potential of Malaysia’s workforce in the age of AI.
