In a rapidly evolving digital world, access to skills like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), cloud computing, and computer science is crucial for opening doors to new opportunities. Unfortunately, many underserved and underrepresented communities face barriers to acquiring these in-demand skills.
To bridge this gap, Amazon Web Services (AWS) has launched the AWS Education Equity Initiative, committing $100 million in cloud credits over the next five years. This investment will enable qualifying education organizations globally to build and scale digital learning innovations that make these transformative skills more accessible.
Transforming Learning Through Cloud Technology
Under the initiative, recipients will receive cloud credits, which act as funding to offset the costs of AWS’s cloud services. Organizations can leverage these credits to access AWS’s advanced cloud technologies and AI services, enabling the creation of cutting-edge learning tools such as:
- AI-powered teaching assistants
- Coding curriculums
- Student learning platforms
- Mobile apps
- Chatbots and connectivity tools
Additionally, AWS Solution Architects will provide technical guidance and best practices for responsibly implementing these technologies.
Examples of Impact
The initiative is already partnering with over 50 organizations across 10 countries to create meaningful educational opportunities. Some examples include:
- Code.org: This nonprofit is scaling an AI Teaching Assistant, powered by Amazon Bedrock, to help teachers reduce time spent assessing coding projects by 50%, allowing them to focus on personalized learning for students.
- Rocket Learning: Based in India, this organization uses AWS tools to analyze the impact of its video and WhatsApp-based content for early childhood education, optimizing learning outcomes across diverse cultural and linguistic contexts.
- Tangible Africa: This South Africa-based nonprofit is expanding its offline coding curriculum to reach 10,000 learners and 120 teachers across Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia, using AWS infrastructure.
Expanding AWS’s Commitment to Education
The AWS Education Equity Initiative builds on Amazon’s broader efforts to enhance learning and career opportunities. Over the past year, programs like Amazon Future Engineer have delivered 17 million hours of STEM education to more than 2 million students. The AWS AI and ML Scholarship Program has awarded $28 million in scholarships, preparing thousands of students for careers in AI.
With this $100 million commitment, AWS aims to create a ripple effect, empowering nonprofits, education technology companies, governments, and social enterprises to unlock learning opportunities for underserved communities worldwide.
Looking Ahead
AWS’s investment in education equity underscores its mission to level the playing field in tech education. By providing access to world-class cloud technologies, the initiative is opening doors for learners from all walks of life to thrive in the digital economy and create a brighter, more inclusive future.