Targeting the “digital divide” between the technology haves and haves not, Microsoft today announced it has allocated an estimated $8.2 million in grants to fund basic technology and job training in Asia.

The $8.2 million in cash and software planned for Asia is part of Microsoft's $25.5 million additional funding for the company's on-going “Unlimited Potential” (UP) program, a global program that focuses on improving lifelong learning for underserved young people and adults by providing technology skills through community-based organizations.

"Microsoft has a commitment to apply our core competencies to the needs of the communities in which we do business. Frankly, this region will only continue its amazing economic story by narrowing the digital divide between the haves and the haves not,” said Microsoft Asia Pacific General Manager Oliver Roll, in a statement. “Our renewed commitment today is to work with governments and NGOs across Asia through our Unlimited Potential grants to bring new skills to those who need them most."

A total of 24 new UP grants have been distributed to 12 Asian countries in this latest round of funding. Highlights include a two-year project in Vietnam that introduces the UP curriculum to more than 400 vocational schools and in-depth support to 60 new community technology learning centers (CTLC); the training of more than 1,900 Japanese women within the year; and expanded community outreach to overseas Filipino workers by adding a CTLC facility in Saudi Arabia, as well as two domestic centers in the Philippine regions of Ilocos and Mindanao, home to more than 1 million stay-behind family members.

Since its inception in 2003, Microsoft UP program has allocated more than $152 million in cash and software to support more than 600 organizations in 95 countries worldwide.  Through technologies and partnerships, Microsoft aims to broaden digital inclusion and bring the benefits of technology and technology skills to one quarter of a billion people by 2010.

By: DocMemory
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