Tech giant Microsoft has announced a groundbreaking program aimed at empowering Filipina women with artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity skills. The company plans to train 100,000 women in the Philippines on how to utilize Microsoft’s AI tools and recognize cybersecurity threats. The program was unveiled during a trade mission led by US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.
Mary Snapp, vice-president of global strategic initiatives at Microsoft, emphasized the potential for the Philippines to drive economic advancement through enhanced AI technology in a positive way. She stated, “We are very excited about the potential for the Philippines to drive economic advancement using enhanced AI technology in a positive way.”
To facilitate the training, Microsoft will collaborate with government agencies and local schools, reaching out to government employees. The goal is to provide these women with valuable workplace skills and enable them to contribute to cybersecurity efforts. Rafaelita Aldaba, Philippine Trade Undersecretary, highlighted the importance of cybersecurity in building trust in tech adoption.
In addition to addressing cybersecurity concerns, this initiative has the potential to combat the issue of disinformation in the Philippines. Snapp explained, “There’s going to be a really strong focus and education campaign so that people who are looking at content are much better able to identify what’s been changed, what’s not been changed.”
Recognizing the need to improve literacy rates in the country, Microsoft is also introducing an AI-powered reading progress tool for approximately 27 million Filipino students in partnership with the Philippine education department. This initiative aims to tackle the alarming statistic revealed in a 2022 World Bank study, which found that nine out of every ten 10-year-old students in the Philippines struggle to read simple texts.
Such a comprehensive program has the potential to empower Filipina women by equipping them with valuable skills in AI and cybersecurity. By partnering with government agencies and local schools, Microsoft is taking a holistic approach to ensure that participants receive high-quality training. This effort not only benefits the individuals involved but also promises to strengthen cybersecurity and enhance trust in technology adoption in the Philippines.
In the words of Mary Snapp, “We believe this program will be a significant step forward in fostering economic advancement, addressing cybersecurity concerns, and promoting literacy in the Philippines. We are committed to working closely with our partners to make a meaningful and lasting impact.” With Microsoft’s support and dedication, Filipina women will now have the opportunity to become leaders in AI and cybersecurity, making an invaluable contribution to their country’s technological landscape.
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