Microsoft has announced plans to invest an additional €4 million in AI skilling in Ireland over the next three years, on top of €8m already invested since 2018.
The company said the money will be used to provide people of all ages, backgrounds and experiences with the opportunity to develop AI and digital skills.
The investment will also support the expansion of Microsoft's 'Dream Space' programme, which provides AI and STEM education to young people.
The announcement comes as Microsoft marks 40 years in Ireland.
The company has released a socio-economic impact report today outlining how it has contributed €40 billion to Ireland's economy over the past 10 years.
Microsoft employs 6,400 people in Ireland across its European headquarters, data centre campus, gaming division Activision Blizzard King, and LinkedIn.
In July, Microsoft announced plans to cut around 9,000 jobs worldwide.
It did not confirm how many Irish-based roles would be impacted, but the Department of Enterprise said it had received a collective redundancy notification from the company.
Microsoft Ireland Site Leader and Corporate Vice President of Microsoft Global Operations Service Centre James O’Connor said that over the past four decades, its Irish operations have been at the centre of Microsoft’s journey of innovation.
"Through continuous investment and transformation, Ireland has become a strategic international hub for Microsoft, home to over 6,400 employees, and an important driver of innovation and economic growth," Mr O'Connor said.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Higher Education Minister James Lawless will attend an event at Microsoft today marking the company's 40th anniversary in Ireland.
"Today marks a significant milestone as Microsoft celebrates 40 years in Ireland," Mr Martin said.
"Its decision to establish and grow here was a gateway investment that has greatly helped to position Ireland as a global digital leader, built on world-class talent, a vibrant technology ecosystem and a strong culture of innovation," he added.
