AUC, Microsoft Collaborate to Strengthen Digital Literacy Among Students, Meet Market Needs

AUC and Microsoft Egypt have signed an agreement that will give students the training and experience they need to improve their digital literacy and keep up with the changing needs of the job market.

With the help of Microsoft, AUC will craft a full-scale digital transformation strategy that will provide students with digital learning tools, assist nontechnical students through AI-related courses, and develop student ambassador initiatives.

The agreement will also develop global technology programs that will allow students to tackle pressing global issues by building purpose-driven applications.

“This is a significant endeavor between AUC and Microsoft to create a framework that would support AUC’s digital transformation strategy and pave the way for more opportunities for innovation,” said AUC President Ahmad Dallal at the signing. “AUC has long been a keen leader and advocate for digitization as a driver to enhance and support teaching, research, operations and all aspects of University life.”

President Dallal was joined by Microsoft Egypt Country Manager Mirna Arif ‘02, ‘07 in late August at AUC New Cairo to sign the agreement.

“The need for digital skills has never been more important than it is today,” said Arif. “Education institutions must therefore play a key role in leading students and preparing them for the future of work in an ever-changing world.”

Microsoft Data Science predicts that by 2025, there will be 149 million new jobs in the technology sector, including roles in software development, cloud and data roles, privacy and trust, cybersecurity, machine learning and artificial intelligence, and data analysis.

Ensuring that students have the skills and experience they need to be current and competitive in the job market is a top priority for AUC. In a similar vein, the University signed a similar agreement with Dell Technologies earlier this year to boost artificial intelligence capacity.