Cloud-based software company Salesforce has surpassed its commitment to provide 500,000 upskilling opportunities to women, delivering over 3 million opportunities within its first year. This initiative is part of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), launched by the US Department of Commerce in September 2022, aiming to provide women in the region with access to digital skills training and education for sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
In India, NASSCOM plays a crucial role by training students and citizens on Salesforce through the NASSCOM Future Skill Prime Portal. Salesforce collaborates with organizations such as Giftabled, Skillible, and Pride Circle to digitally empower people with disabilities, women returning to work, and LGBTQ communities in India.
The initiative addresses the gender skills gap prevalent in the Asia Pacific region, where women constitute only 25.1% of employment in IT and information services, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO). Salesforce's commitment involves partnerships with governments, public sector organizations, and nonprofits to provide upskilling opportunities for women.
William Sim, Vice President of Trailhead Academy, Asia-Pacific at Salesforce, emphasizes the company's dedication to bridging the gender skills gap. Learning opportunities are delivered through Trailhead, Salesforce's free online learning platform, offering expert-led training events, self-paced e-learning courses, and certifications for jobs in the Salesforce ecosystem.
Salesforce's initiative not only exceeds its initial commitment but also demonstrates a tangible impact on the lives and careers of individuals in the Indo-Pacific region, contributing to the unlocking of the region's digital economies.
