In a significant collaboration aimed at enhancing artificial intelligence (AI) skills across Thailand, Microsoft has launched the "THAI Academy" project, which offers free online courses designed to empower Thai citizens at all levels. The initiative, part of a broader government strategy to integrate AI into various sectors, is set to train over 1 million Thais by 2025.
The THAI Academy project features more than 200 courses available on the AI Skills Navigator platform, which can be accessed for free at AI Skills Navigator. These courses, translated into Thai, cover a wide range of topics from basic AI concepts to specialized training for professionals such as teachers, executives, and software developers.
According to Bangkok Biz News, the project aims to bridge the skills gap in AI technology and position Thailand as a competitive player in the global AI landscape. The Digital Economy and Society Ministry (DE) and the National AI Committee are supporting this initiative, which aligns with the government's objectives to enhance the country's technological capabilities and promote deep tech development.
"AI is a crucial technology that will help Thailand grow stronger on the global stage," said Mr. Prasert Chanruangthong, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society. He emphasized the government's commitment to creating a national AI framework that fosters understanding and application of AI among the population.
The THAI Academy includes various sub-projects designed to integrate AI into government operations and public services. For instance, Microsoft is collaborating with the Office of the Public Sector Development Commission ( ก.พ.ร.) and the Digital Government Development Agency (สพร./DGA) to enhance AI skills for over 100,000 government officials. This effort aims to encourage public sector employees to leverage AI for improved service delivery.
In addition, the project will provide AI training to over 100,000 workers and job seekers across the country, facilitated by the Ministry of Labor. This initiative focuses on equipping individuals with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven job market.
The collaboration extends to the National Cyber Security Agency (สคมช.), which will train personnel in both AI and cybersecurity, benefiting approximately 368 individuals while also providing skills training to over 10,000 students. This dual focus on AI and cybersecurity is essential as the country seeks to safeguard its digital infrastructure.
Moreover, partnerships with the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society will enhance AI skills for staff at 1,722 ICT Learning Centers nationwide, aiming to increase knowledge for around 250,000 people. This initiative is crucial in ensuring that AI literacy reaches communities across the country.
The THAI Academy also aims to train 4,500 teachers through collaboration with the Ministry of Education, enabling them to educate an additional 400,000 students nationwide. This effort is part of a broader objective to incorporate AI literacy into the education system, specifically targeting students in grades P.4 to M.6.
Furthermore, Microsoft is working with 20 universities across Thailand to enhance AI skills in various academic fields, fostering a new generation of researchers and developers. The goal is to develop over 50,000 skilled individuals who can contribute to the country's AI ecosystem.
Mr. Thanawat Sutthumpan, Managing Director of Microsoft Thailand, highlighted that the THAI Academy initiative is a collective effort involving over 35 public and private organizations. This collaboration is pivotal in driving the country towards an AI-first future, ensuring that Thai citizens are well-prepared to adapt to the rapidly changing job landscape.
The AI Skills Navigator platform features three levels of learning: AI Basics, AI Skills for Everyone, and Azure AI: Zero to Hero. This structured approach allows learners to progress from foundational knowledge to advanced AI application skills, catering to a diverse audience.
As the project unfolds, the government plans to hold its first meeting of the National AI Committee within April 2025. This committee, chaired by Prime Minister Ms. Phaethongthan Shinawatra, will focus on developing a systematic approach to AI technology throughout the nation, emphasizing the importance of AI in economic growth and competitiveness.
Overall, the THAI Academy project represents a significant step towards building an AI-literate society in Thailand. By providing accessible education and training, the initiative aims to empower individuals and foster innovation in various sectors, ultimately contributing to the nation's economic development and global standing.
