Department of Skill Development Collaborates with Microsoft to Upskill Thai Workforce in AI through THAI Academy Initiative

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The Department of Skill Development (DSD), Ministry of Labour, in collaboration with Microsoft Thailand, is advancing AI skills development through the THAI Academy. The initiative aims to train 100,000 Thai workers and job seekers nationwide in AI skills, empowering them to adapt to the evolving labor market and enhance the country’s competitiveness on a global scale. This is a crucial foundation for driving Thailand’s digital economy.

Mr. Dechar Peukpattanaruk, Director General, Department of Skill Development, highlighted the collaboration with Microsoft Thailand on the THAI Academy initiative: “The Department of Skill Development recognizes the significant role of AI in driving economic growth and transforming the labor market. Collaborating with Microsoft, a global leader in AI technology, presents a vital opportunity to upskill the Thai workforce to meet market demands. We are confident that Microsoft’s expertise will help us develop relevant, modern training courses, creating a skilled AI workforce and enhancing the competitiveness of Thai workers internationally.”

The THAI Academy initiative aims to upskill over 1 million Thais in AI by 2025. This includes approximately 100,000 individuals in the Thai workforce and job seekers nationwide, who will be trained through the Department of Skill Development’s 77 training centers across the country. The curriculum, taught in Thai by experts from Microsoft and its partners, is designed to be easily understood and applied to real-world work scenarios.

To date, 40,521 individuals have participated in the training, with 16,476 completing the program and receiving certifications. This includes workers and members of the public trained by DSD instructors, as well as those who have completed self-paced training through DSD Online Training and DSD officials nationwide.

“We believe this initiative will foster lifelong learning and create a Thai workforce that can adapt to technological advancements, which is crucial for the country’s long-term development,” added Mr. Dechar.

Furthermore, employers with 100 or more employees who provide AI skills training to employees working in relevant areas, using courses certified by the Department of Skill Development, can benefit from the Skill Development Promotion Act B.E. 2545 (A.D. 2002). Employers can deduct 100% of the training expenses from their taxes, encouraging employee skills development and boosting workforce efficiency in Thailand.

Interested individuals can join the THAI Academy project to develop AI skills and capture new career opportunities. Details about the project and registration information can be found at https://thai-academy.com/th/ and https://aiskillsnavigator.microsoft.com/th-th or through DSD Online Training of the Department of Skill Development.