Students at Melbourne’s Swinburne University of Technology have an opportunity to participate in Microsoft’s pilot employability skills program, designed to equip students with the skills and talent required for high-demand technical roles.
The pilot program seeks to address projected workforce shortages in new technologies, including AI, cybersecurity, data science and computer science, as the ‘gig economy’ continues to grow and expand, changing the face of the modern workforce.
Swinburne University Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Duncan Bentley, said graduates must be prepared for the future of work and lifelong learning.
“The world of work in the future will look very different from today. With growing global shortages of experts in digital technologies, new ways to meet upcoming workforce needs are required,” said Professor Bentley.
“Graduates need new skill sets to participate in future work, and individuals need to retrain, upskill and maintain skills through a process of lifelong learning that is adaptable and responds to industry needs. Skills shortages have negative impacts on businesses and the students of today will do jobs that don’t yet exist.
“By fostering industry connections and embedding industry experience in students’ study, Swinburne is uniquely placed to contribute to workforce transformation and ensure that students are prepared to fulfil their professional purpose. Working with Microsoft will further enhance our students’ capabilities.”
Microsoft’s Global General Manager, 21stCentury Jobs, Skills and Employability, Karen Kocher said Microsoft aimed to move people and technology forward together.
“We are proud to work with Swinburne University of Technology as the university provides extensive industry engagement and technological innovation in Australia,” she said.
“At Microsoft, we want to empower everyone to achieve their career aspirations and make sure they can succeed in a technology-driven society.”
Swinburne University, which has campuses in Melbourne, Australia and Sarawak, Malaysia, is part of a select group of universities involved in the pilot program, which will contribute to the development of Microsoft’s employability platform. The online platform will allow students to match their interests and aptitude to discover potential skills and career paths.