The company was recognized for its efforts in training digital skills and strengthening connectivity in rural areas, transforming lives and promoting sustainable development.
Almost half a million Colombians have acquired digital skills and 5 million inhabitants of rural communities now have access to the Internet and new opportunities.
Bogotá, Colonbia – Microsoft has been awarded by the United States Department of State with the “Secretary of State’s Award for Corporate Excellence” (ACE Award), in recognition of its work to expand Internet connectivity, develop digital skills and promote the economic inclusion of vulnerable communities in Colombia. The ACE Awards are given by the Department of State to recognize companies that demonstrate a strong commitment to social responsibility and best practices in their global operations. These awards highlight the positive impact that companies can have on the economic and social development of the communities where they operate.
Sarah MorgenthauSpecial Representative of the Department of State’s Bureau of Trade and Business Affairs, presented the award at a ceremony in Washington, DC, attended by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Kurt Campbell. Morgenthau praised Microsoft’s contributions in Colombia, highlighting its impact on digital inclusion and opportunities in rural areas.
Since 2020, Microsoft has trained 484,000 people in digital skills, including 65,000 women and 96,000 youth, resulting in the creation of 31,000 jobs and lifting 10,000 people out of poverty. This achievement was possible thanks to two emblematic initiatives: Skills for Jobs y Airband.
The first equips Colombians with skills for the future through courses and workshops developed in collaboration with public and private sector organizations. This strategy has allowed people of all ages, particularly those vulnerable to exclusion, to acquire knowledge that improves their education, job opportunities, quality of life and their ability to contribute to their communities.
The rural connectivity program Airband aims to bring high-speed Internet to underserved areas and has already reached more than 5 million people. It is expected to connect 9 million people by the end of 2025. Through strategic alliances, the initiative allows communities to access online education, government services, production networks, entrepreneurship and a better quality of life. Airband combines connectivity with education, skills development, productivity programs and community leadership workshops.
Connectivity and training for development
The company’s collaborations with Anditel y Hughes They have brought digital skills to rural communities, helping farmers, women and children. The project Cocoa Connectin collaboration with USAID and other organizations, established connectivity points in cocoa-producing regions, improving productivity and benefiting more than 300 producers in Colombia.
Communities: the center of innovation
To enhance the technological and economic growth of Colombia, Microsoft has launched strategic programs and partnerships. He Code C-13 program helps young people from Comuna 13 of Medellín explore technological careers, turning it into a center of innovation. Furthermore, the association with NODE-Eafit has established an AI laboratory, training more than 400 people from vulnerable groups in advanced technologies to create innovative solutions for SMEs and regional governments.
Microsoft has partnered with the Buenaventura Port Society Foundation to provide programming training to more than 700 students and 19 teachers, creating important economic opportunities in the area. Daniel Verswyvel, General Manager of Microsoft Colombia, shared his enthusiasm upon receiving this award. “We are deeply honored by this award, which highlights not only our efforts but also the commitment of our partners and collaborators to foster a more equitable nation where opportunities are accessible to all Colombians. This recognition reinforces our determination to empower every person and organization in the world to achieve more and create a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”he declared.
This recognition highlights the role of innovation and collaboration in solving social challenges, promoting a more inclusive future. Microsoft thanks its partners, collaborators, and the community for their support. The company remains committed to initiatives that transform lives and create opportunities, aligning with its vision of providing technology and tools for everyone to reach their full potential.
***
About Microsoft
Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) creates AI-powered platforms and tools to deliver innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers. The technology company is committed to making AI widely available, responsibly, with a mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.
