Microsoft Elevate for Educators launches in Saudi Arabia, providing free AI literacy training
Microsoft has expanded its AI training program in Saudi Arabia, announcing Microsoft Elevate for Educators in the country.
The scheme will provide free AI literacy training to 500,000 educators and hopes to support teachers and school leaders to integrate AI into their teaching and learning.
Microsoft Elevate for Educators is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to reduce the nation’s reliance on oil. Microsoft has also partnered with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Education to provide schools and universities in the country with access to Microsoft 365.
The scheme was announced at the Microsoft AI Tour Riyadh. Writing on LinkedIn, Turki Badhris, President at Microsoft Arabia, shared: “This announcement reflects a broader shift across the Kingdom: moving from pilots to platforms, from experimentation to deployment, and from ambition to measurable impact.
“AI leadership is ultimately about trust, readiness, and people. It requires responsible, secure, and scalable adoption aligned with the priorities of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.”
Microsoft has also highlighted its aim to provide digital and AI skills to women in Saudi Arabia, partnering with healthcare providers iCare, Saudi Data & AI Authority and Spectrum on a global initiative that aims to train 5,000 women worldwide.
Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft, adds: “Countries that lead in AI are those that invest not only in technology, but in people. Saudi Arabia’s AI ambitions are underpinned by a clear focus on skills, trust and long-term impact.
“By combining trusted cloud infrastructure with large-scale skilling efforts, we are supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals and helping build an AI-ready workforce that can turn AI innovation into productivity, economic growth and lasting national advantage.”
