SEOUL – Microsoft has announced a new initiative to enhance the AI capabilities of K-12 educators in South Korea, following the global launch of its Microsoft Elevate organization. This move aims to equip teachers with the tools and skills necessary to integrate artificial intelligence into the classroom effectively.
The program comes on the heels of the "2025 AI in Education Report," co-published by Microsoft and PSB Insights. The report reveals a significant gap: while 76% of global education leaders consider AI literacy a core competency, only 10% of institutions are actually providing AI-integrated education. Microsoft's new programs are designed to close this gap by helping educators and students leverage AI as a tool for fostering creativity and critical thinking.
The initiative will be rolled out through several key components:
Microsoft Showcase Schools: Participating schools will collaborate with Microsoft and its global partners to deepen educational innovation based on a specialized framework. One middle school in Korea has already joined the program this year, with plans to expand participation to more schools in the future.
Renewed Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert (MIEE) Program: The program, which aims to develop innovative educators who boost student engagement and collaboration, has been revamped to offer a wider range of global partnerships and technical support. This year, over 170 teachers have completed the program and are beginning their new roles.
Microsoft AI Hero (MAI Hero): This is an advanced training course for MIEEs who want to become AI experts. The hands-on curriculum focuses on applying major AI tools such as Microsoft Azure, Microsoft 365 Copilot, and Copilot Agents to school tasks and lessons. It also provides opportunities to connect with a global network of educators.
In a further expansion of its support, Microsoft will also introduce its "AI for Educators" certification program in Korea starting in January of next year. Developed in partnership with the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), this course will teach teachers how to responsibly use AI for classroom planning, material creation, and even building their own AI tools.
According to Brad Smith, Microsoft's Vice Chair and President, "To provide students with genuine AI education, it is essential to first provide teachers with the necessary AI tools, training, and trust." He emphasized Microsoft's ongoing commitment to supporting both students and educators in enhancing their AI literacy and skills.
The global Microsoft Elevate organization plans to provide approximately $4 billion in financial support and technology over the next five years to help 20 million people in K-12 schools, colleges, and non-profits enhance their AI capabilities. The launch of the program in South Korea marks a significant step in this global effort.
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