Microsoft is set to invest approximately $296.81 million in AI infrastructure in South Africa. Additionally, the company will fund technical certification exams for 50,000 individuals. This announcement follows Microsoft’s earlier plan to invest about $80 billion in data centres for AI and cloud applications by fiscal 2025.
Microsoft has committed to investing an additional 5.4 billion rand (approximately $296.81 million) in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure in South Africa, as stated by Microsoft Vice Chair and President, Brad Smith, during an event in Johannesburg. This investment aims to enhance the country’s technological capabilities, further solidifying Microsoft’s presence in the region.
In addition to infrastructure investment, Microsoft will cover the costs of technical certification exams for 50,000 individuals, focusing on equipping them with in-demand digital skills necessary for the evolving job market. This initiative underscores Microsoft’s dedication to developing talent in the digital realm.
Earlier in January, Microsoft announced a broader investment plan amounting to about $80 billion slated for fiscal 2025, aimed at constructing data centres crucial for training AI models and deploying AI alongside cloud-based applications.
In conclusion, Microsoft is intensifying its investment in South Africa by allocating approximately $296.81 million towards AI infrastructure. This initiative, along with funding technical certification for thousands, demonstrates Microsoft’s commitment to fostering skill development and enhancing technological capacities within the region. Furthermore, the company’s larger investment strategy indicates a significant focus on AI development in the coming years.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
