In order to be competitive in the workforce, it’s so important for young people to have experience with modern technology, and have access to computer science education. Especially in rural ares like my own, this sort of education is seriously lacking. I am so excited to share some ways that Microsoft is increasing access to technology and computer science education for young people through new and expanded youth technology programs!
Earlier today Microsoft reported on its progress reaching young people though Microsoft YouthSpark, launched two years ago this month to provide opportunities to 300 million young people around the world and specifically the technical skills and education that experts say youth need to get jobs and start businesses. In an effort to reach even more young people, Microsoft today announced:
• The TEALS program (Technology Education And Literacy in Schools) is doubling its reach in the U.S. This year, TEALS is placing software engineers as volunteer computer science teachers in 131 high schools across 18 states plus Washington, D.C. This is an increase from 70 schools in 12 states last year. The program’s expansion is an effort to meet the rising demand for computer science education.
• The popular YouthSpark Summer Camps at Microsoft retail stores won’t end this fall. Across all full-line Microsoft Stores in the United States and Canada, YouthSpark Summer Camps are expanding to a full school year program of field trips for K-12 students.
• To celebrate and support young innovators around the world, Microsoft is launching Imagine Cup 2015, the worldwide student technology contest. Students ages 16 and older are invited to register for the Imagine Cup 2015 season and learn about the many opportunities to compete throughout the year.
• And for the millions of youth around the world that still face a digital divide, Microsoft is expanding its Digital Literacy Curriculum to 10 more languages to increase youth access to the basic technology skills they’ll need to help cross the opportunity divide.
Joshua Uwadiae from the UK got a second chance when he enrolled in an apprenticeship program and went from being a high school dropout to an IT manager with a promising future. Joshua’s story, and the stories of other “YouthSpark Stars” underscore the program’s impact but also the movement that is being made to address the youth unemployment gap.
Disclosure: As a Microsoft Windows Champion I receive products to use throughout the year.
Bill Gates is a big supporter of youth education, especially when it comes to technology. I find that huge plus in my book, and I have benefited from Gates/ Microsoft donating computers to school systems across the US.
I love the year round field trips, when I was a kid I learned so much and found them so fun- go Microsoft!
What great programs. When I was in school, we were required to utilize computers and it helped me immensely, especially now that I blog and am getting my MBA online!
Very neat about them expanding! Thanks for sharing!!
Microsoft is a big proponent of youth programs.. they may not have the best software, but they really do give back to their communities..
This is such a good program! It is so important to get children into technology because it is a major part of life and business now.
Bill Gates is an amazing man, though he’s got a lot of money he finds a way to give back.
I was under the impression that their youth programs for ages 8 and up. I didn’t know that they also had programs for kindergartens.
I didn’t realize they had the YouthSpark. Will have to look into that.
I love this young man’s story that once he redirected his focus, he found his true purpose.
We switched our son from a small private preschool to a public school with a library, computer lab and interactive display board in his classroom.
I love how they integrate technology into the learning experience even for pre-k.
We used to be active in Imagine Cup and it’s great to meet other contenders from other schools. Microsoft does a good job in promoting innovation every time.
This is greta news. I love that big tech has a vested interest in the youth. They know they can’t find great innovators without giving them the tools to allow them to innovate.
This is such a great program. I am hoping to one day put my kids through their camp. If I had a location closer to my house they would already be put in the program.
I love hearing the success stories. So many kids just need a chance!
This is great! Technology is our future and I love seeing opportunities given to kids who just need a leg up.
This is a great initiative to empower our youths. Thumps up to Microsoft.
I love what Microsoft is doing to help early education. At a local school – they were donated an entire Microsoft room filled with xbox kinnects for each child so they can use them for indoor gym time.
This is awesome! I love when big companies give back. Microsoft has been a huge supporter of schools and youth education for years. I really think this is great!
Microsoft does many great things. I have a friend who works for the bill and melinda gates foundation. They do so many great things.
That is so wonderful of them to do this! I have always been a big fan of Microsoft.
What a great cause and program Microsoft is doing for our children. I have never heard about this until now. Thanks for sharing.
Big props to Microsoft for getting involved in this way with the youth. This is my first time hearing about it, I hope it won’t be the last!
What a great program! It’s amazing that they are giving opportunities to 300 million young people around the world.
I love that YouthSpark is expanding to a year-round program. If only we had a MS store that was closer. The addition of languages is a welcome announcement too!
These sound like wonderful programs. Especially in such a technology driven world.
Very inspiring video! It warms my heart to know that there are programs out there that will help trouble kids have a bright future. Kudos to Joshua for being such an inspiration!
What an awesome thing for Microsoft to do, I love this!
What a great program! I love that Bill Gates gives back…
Microsoft is always doing great things in the classroom.
I think it’s great that they’re helping kids get access to the technology that’s going to benefit their futures. Even if you don’t go into a techy field, there’s almost no way to get around needing a basic understanding!
I love what Microsoft does for kids. This is great!
I had never heard the term “digital divide” but I can totally understand why it would be significant. Without exposure to technology, how is the youth of today going to be able to market themselves? I’m grateful Microsoft is doing something to assist these individuals.
It always amazes me how technology savvy younger kids are. They start learning computer skills at a very young age and I am glad that Microsoft is targeting that population.
Good for Microsoft for supporting the future with technology based programs.
This is great to keep our children busy and safe. I called on the summer for the one by my area but it was too late. Next year will call early to make sure my kids get in. THanks