Standard Chartered and Microsoft representative at the signing event. — Photo courtesy of Standard Chartered
Standard Chartered has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Microsoft to drive women's participation and leadership in technology across Việt Nam and Asia through the “code; without barriers” programme.
The MoU aims to drive awareness, advocacy, influence and leadership for female participation regardless of abilities in technology. It will provide access to opportunities in tech through acquiring digital skills and connected communities.
A strong ecosystem and community of women leaders in AI and technology, to contribute and accelerate national digital transformation and innovation is expected to be established under the co-operation. It would also enhance employability for women, fostering a more equitable workforce.
Under this 12-month programme, all Standard Chartered employees, especially women, will gain access to upskilling courses focused on AI and technology, opportunities to participate in hackathons or skills challenges, and providing mentorship and coaching programs for young women in tech.
Microsoft will provide free virtual training days leading to AI Fundamentals certifications for women employees in the bank, valuable networking and speaking engagements at Microsoft events, panel discussions, and podcasts, and leveraging Microsoft technology platforms for hackathons.
Michele Wee, CEO of Standard Chartered Vietnam, said: “At Standard Chartered, we champion a gender-balanced workforce, with women comprising 70 per cent of our employees.
"The collaboration with Microsoft is an important step in empowering the bank’s women employees to excel in tech careers, and in mentoring the next generation of female tech leaders. This collaboration aligns with our commitment to promoting inclusive economic growth, especially in the frontier markets where we operate.”
Nguyễn Quỳnh Trâm, Country General Manager, Microsoft Vietnam, added: “At Microsoft, we aspire to help every person, no matter their gender, ethnicity or backgrounds, to succeed in the digital age. Which is why “code; without barriers” was created across APAC.
"Today, we’re excited to have Standard Chartered Vietnam join us in this initiative to empower a new generation of women in tech and foster a more diverse and inclusive digital economy of Việt Nam.”
This collaboration between Standard Chartered and Microsoft represents a significant step forward in empowering women in the tech industry and fostering a more inclusive and innovative future. — VNS