Elly Yates-Roberts |
Microsoft Canada has launched the CEO Pledge, in collaboration with Computers for Success Canada, to help close the digital skills gap by providing devices to those in underserved communities. Twenty-three organisations from across Canada have joined Microsoft in the initiative, including Bell Canada, Enbridge Inc, Finastra, TD Bank Group, TELUS, Scotiabank and Sunlife.
According to a recent article by Microsoft Canada president Kevin Peesker, those involved in the pledge will commit their organisation’s end-of-cycle devices to Computers for Schools Plus (CFS+), a programme from the government of Canada that refurbishes devices for use by schools, libraries, not-for-profit organisations, indigenous communities and low-income individuals.
“By combining the best in technology with the participation of leading Canadian organisations, we can better serve people and create opportunities for individuals across the country,” said Peesker. “This moment is an important step toward creating an innovative future that will sustain job growth and ensure that underrepresented groups have access to the technology they need to acquire skills for the jobs of the future.
“We are thrilled that so many leading organisations across industries are joining us on this journey and look forward to welcoming additional brands in the coming months.”
The CEO Pledge is the latest in Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to prepare Canadians for the digital economy by providing access to skills training and other digital infrastructure investments. Other recent announcements from Microsoft include access to online training tools from Microsoft, LinkedIn and GitHub and a digital skills programme in UK schools.
“The organisations that have signed on to the CEO Pledge are leading by example,” said Toby Harper-Merrett, executive director of Computers for Success Canada. “Their commitment will improve access to technology for Canadians at risk of digital exclusion while creating a more sustainable future for everyone.”