Global professional services firm EY and tech giant Microsoft have announced the launch of a new free online education program to equip young people with the skills they need to find green jobs and pursue opportunities in the growing green economy.
Known as the Green Skills Passport, the program is part of an ongoing social impact collaboration between EY and Microsoft focused on sustainability, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), and upskilling for young people aged 16 and over.
The program includes a 10-hour virtual course on key topics including sustainability, entrepreneurship, and skills for employment. Participants will also receive an EY and Microsoft certificate upon completion, and have access to a database of websites and resources to search for green jobs, and learn employability skills such as resume writing and preparing for interviews.
“We’re proud to continue growing our collaboration with EY to offer these unique programs that bridge the gap between education and employability,” said Jean-Philippe Courtois, EVP and President, National Transformation Partnerships at Microsoft. “Through these programs, we are taking steps toward social equity and empowering leaders of the future.”
The launch of the Green Skills Passport program follows successful pilot programs in the US, India, and Bangladesh, with over 1,400 course completions. Of those who completed the program, 61% said they planned to apply for green jobs, and 43% said they planned to enrol in a university degree in sustainability or take more related classes.
“The collaboration between EY and Microsoft extends beyond a traditional alliance, showcasing our shared dedication to generating social impact,” said Andy Baldwin, EY Global Managing Partner – Client Service. “These programs are a testament of our desire to continue equipping young individuals with the skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.”
In addition to the Green Skills Passport program, Microsoft has partnered with KPMG for yet another sustainability-focused initiative, the KPMG ESG Academy. This program supports business leaders in learning and adopting ESG (environmental, social, and governance) factors into their businesses.
