Hong Kong to launch free AI courses with tech giants Google, Microsoft for SMEs

The Hong Kong government is set to launch free AI courses in collaboration with industry giants Google and Microsoft, aiming to bolster the adoption of artificial intelligence among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Coordinated by the Hong Kong Productivity Council, the initiative falls under the government's HK$50 million "AI for All" program.

Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong highlighted that SMEs, accounting for over 90% of businesses in Hong Kong, are crucial to the city's economic growth. Deputy chairman Emil Yu Chen-on emphasized that the courses will serve as "a future-facing talent investment" to ensure AI is used safely and productively, offering actionable, replicable, and scalable AI applications tailored to various industries.

The council, along with Cyberport and the Hong Kong Science Park, will oversee the implementation of the initiative, with more than 200 activities planned over two years to benefit 50,000 individuals. The focus will be on practical AI applications in content creation, data analysis, and workflow efficiency, along with hands-on experience in AI application development.

Courses will also address human resources and leadership to help organizations manage AI talent and prepare for future workforce needs. Additionally, the "AI BiteClass" will be available to elderly residents and underprivileged communities. The council's "AI with HKPC – Business Empowerment" program commenced at the Hong Kong Computer and Communications Festival last week, and future course details are yet to be announced.

Instructors will come from diverse industries with AI project and solution development experience, including Google, Microsoft, Tencent Holdings, Huawei Technologies, Amazon Web Services, and others. The council will offer free one-on-one consultations to guide SMEs in leveraging government funding to upgrade and transform their businesses by identifying suitable schemes and applications.

Most courses will be held at the council's Kowloon Tong headquarters, while some will be conducted online via the government's "iAM Smart" system.