Microsoft investing $75 million globally: HEC holds 'Microsoft Academic Day' at AJK University

Microsoft is investing $75 million globally over the next three years to increase access to computer science education for all youth, and especially for those from under-represented backgrounds. Cloud programmes, like Office 365, play a significant role in enhancing collaboration, creativity and critical thinking in the classroom.
The inaugural 'Microsoft Academic Day' organised at the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir in Muzaffarabad, is a celebration of the HEC and Microsoft commitment to delivering advanced trainings, boot-camps, state-of-the-art software packages to universities across the country. The HEC has taken a horde of ICT initiatives to provide advance services to the education and research communities at the higher education institutions in Pakistan, that include National Digital Library, Pakistan Education & Research Network (PERN), National Video Conferencing Network, Unified Communication, Access to Licensed Software, Higher Education Management Information System, and e-HEC Online Services.
As devices and technology become more accessible, and the capabilities grow, especially when the laptops (2-in-1) are being distributed by HEC under the Prime Minister's Laptops Scheme, Microsoft will unlock the potential for all students to learn, closing the skills gap and empowering the students to achieve more.
The 'Microsoft Academic Day' included discussions on the Education Transformation Agreement between the two organisations, and its impact and role in the education landscape of Pakistan. Furthermore, Azure and Cloud, the latest technology trends in education, were also highlighted. Additionally, an insight into the 'Imagine Cup'; next year's engagement plan and past four year winners; a showcase on Office 365, discussion on the 250,000 plus users on the platform, it's adoption relating to its usage in education; were also addressed on the occasion.