A major new initiative aimed at equipping Scotland’s workforce with cutting-edge digital skills has been unveiled by the Scottish Government in partnership with Skills Development Scotland (SDS) and Business Gateway.
The Digital Learning Initiative brings together world-class training resources from leading technology companies including AWS, Cisco, IBM, Microsoft, and Salesforce.
As artificial intelligence and advanced technologies reshape industries, the programme seeks to unlock productivity and innovation across Scotland by providing free, accessible online courses in high-demand areas such as AI, Cybersecurity, Software Development, and Data Science.
IBM is delighted to collaborate with the Scottish Government on this, and we look forward to continuing our long-term presence and support for Scotland as the initiative progress, more information here.
Back in June, IBM also supported the UK Government TechFirst announcement to bring digital skills and AI learning into classrooms and communities, as well as train 7.5 million adults for AI-powered jobs of the future. These initiatives are a major step forward for the future of digital talent.
At the programme launch at Scotsoft in September, Business Minister Richard Lochhead said “The Digital Learning Initiative is a big and bold step towards empowering our citizens and businesses by making high-quality digital learning freely available to Scottish residents and small businesses.”
Leon Butler, Chief Executive IBM UK and Ireland said: “Having helped millions globally develop new tech skills through our IBM SkillsBuild programme, IBM is delighted to collaborate with the Scottish Government to enhance digital skills for individuals and businesses. We look forward to continuing our long-term presence and support for Scotland as the initiative progresses.”
IBM’s Global Month of Impact
During IBM’s global month of Impact, IBMers are encouraged to give back to their community and volunteer their time and skills.
The team in Scotland have done IBM proud with over 200 hours volunteered in a wide range of activities. And IBM matches their volunteer efforts by providing cash incentives which the IBMers can then donate to charities of their own choice.
A team of IBM volunteers spent the afternoon at Lambhill Stables, replacing fencing, digging and spreading bark on paths: a great afternoon doing work with immediate impact for a fantastic charity working to combat social isolation in the community.
There was a city centre walk to raise awareness of Breast Cancer celebrating Pink October, with the team donating pyjamas and blankets to the Beatson centre.
The team prepared snack bags for families using Crossbasket House which provides vital accommodation for families with children at Glasgow Children’s Hospital. The team prepared Lego spinners which will be used as classroom aides for science lessons by Buddies Club.
The team were also focusing on skills supporting three “Step into STEM” events, talking to high school students about careers in tech and also delivering a session on AI at the Centre for Lifelong Learning at Strathclyde University.
All in all, these were a fantastic series of events that left IBMers proud and energised, knowing they made a meaningful impact in their local communities.
