In a major push to democratize artificial intelligence education, Microsoft has unveiled AI Skills Fest, a free global training initiative aimed at helping individuals build AI knowledge and skills. The event starts April 8, 2025, and will run until May 28, 2025, spanning 50 days of interactive learning.
This new initiative is open to all—students, educators, professionals, and tech enthusiasts—regardless of age or technical background. Microsoft’s goal is clear: to make AI learning more accessible and less intimidating, especially as AI technologies continue to reshape industries and everyday life.
“Whether you're a student, tech professional, business leader or just curious about AI, you can sign up for the programme and choose courses that suit your level of understanding.”
Microsoft is offering a wide variety of training options to meet the needs of beginners and experienced users alike:
Basic Lessons: Introduction to AI, practical uses in daily life and workplaces.
Intermediate & Advanced Modules: Training with tools like Microsoft Fabric, GitHub Copilot, and Azure AI services.
Certification Prep: Courses geared towards Microsoft certifications, including DP-700, though exam fees must be paid separately.
“Microsoft says the training will be available in several languages, including Hindi, English, French, Chinese, Spanish, and many others.”
The sessions are designed to be globally inclusive and are available in multiple formats:
Self-paced lessons
Live online sessions
AI hackathons and challenges
In-person community meetups
As part of the AI Skills Fest Challenge, Microsoft is giving away 50,000 free vouchers for Microsoft certification exams via weekly lucky draws.
Additionally, “GitHub is also offering a 50 per cent discount on its latest Copilot certification exam for those who complete the learning module.”
This gamified learning experience incentivizes consistent participation and helps learners gain industry-recognized credentials to boost their careers.
“Microsoft says this initiative is a step towards making AI learning easier and less intimidating.”
The company envisions a future where everyone, regardless of their profession, has a fundamental understanding of AI and can use it productively.
“It wants to encourage people to take one small step at a time and use AI to solve problems, be more productive, and unlock new opportunities.”
Whether you’re aiming to enhance your current role with AI tools or transition into tech, this event offers a solid foundation—completely free of charge.
Visit the official AI Skills Fest website (check Microsoft’s Learning platform).
Create a free account or sign in using your Microsoft ID.
Choose your learning path – beginner, intermediate, or advanced.
Select the preferred format: self-paced, live, or hybrid.
Start learning and complete challenges to win prizes or qualify for discounts.
Microsoft’s AI Skills Fest 2025 is a commendable step towards fostering global digital literacy in the age of artificial intelligence. By offering free, structured training for learners at all levels and in multiple languages, the tech giant aims to bridge the knowledge gap and create an AI-ready workforce.
With modules tailored for beginners and advanced professionals, and tools such as GitHub Copilot and Azure AI, participants gain practical, hands-on experience.
The added incentive of certification vouchers and discounts, combined with live sessions, hackathons, and in-person events, makes this initiative not just educational but engaging. Microsoft’s move reflects a broader industry trend of empowering people to harness AI in meaningful ways—whether to enhance job performance, develop new tools, or explore future career paths.
With no cost to participate, this is a perfect opportunity for anyone looking to upskill and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.