Cisco, UK DSIT partner to expand AI and digital skills

Cisco has signed an agreement with the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology to expand AI, networking and digital skills across the country. The company committed more than 8,000 employee volunteer hours and to arrange work experience for 7,000 students over the next four years, with the Cisco Networking Academy increasing course availability.

The partnership supports the government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan, which aims to deliver skills courses to over 10 million people by 2030, and the TechFirst programme that targets one million secondary school students with technology and AI learning experiences. Work placements will be arranged in London, Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow.

Cisco introduced its UK & Ireland Manifesto a year ago and focused on growing community presence, building digital skills and mobilising employees and partners. Over the past 12 months the Cisco Networking Academy has helped about 100,000 learners build skills in areas such as networking, cybersecurity and AI, moving toward a target of one million learners in the UK and Ireland by 2030.

Cisco has partnered with more than 100 organisations on skills programmes, including apprenticeship routes and a levy donation arrangement with training firm Multiverse. The company plans to expand Networking Academy courses on AI, cybersecurity and networking fundamentals and expects volunteers and partner organisations to help deliver practical learning and career pathways.

Sarah Walker, chief executive of Cisco UK & Ireland, commented: “We believe a digital society that works for everyone isn’t out of reach. Neither is it the responsibility of one group of people or organisations. That is why collaboration matters. Today’s announcement marks a year of progress towards our commitment to help create a more inclusive, digital UK and Ireland, with a clear path to future impact.”

DSIT and Cisco said the private-sector commitments are intended to complement existing public and private training offers and to increase opportunities for young people and adults seeking entry-level and specialist roles in technology as the government scales national training for AI and tech skills ahead of its 2030 targets.