Ireland has launched AIReady.ie, a free national AI skills platform developed by SOLAS, the state's further education and training authority, in partnership with the National Skills Council and Microsoft, targeting one million people for AI upskilling, as reported by Edtech Innovation Hub.

The platform is available immediately, with four beginner-level courses each running between 20 and 30 minutes and structured around two to three modules. Courses cover everyday AI use, scam awareness and online safety, business correspondence and administration, and career development including CV building and interview preparation.

All courses are fully funded and designed to work with free versions of tools including ChatGPT and Google Gemini, with no requirement for paid software subscriptions. The platform is mobile-optimised and requires only basic registration before access is granted.

Initial content targets older people, small businesses, sole traders, farmers and those returning to the workforce, reflecting a deliberate focus on inclusion and accessibility across diverse learner profiles.

Catherine Doyle, general manager of Microsoft Ireland, said the company was proud of its contribution to the platform's development. "AI is already changing how we work and live," she said. "The opportunity now is to ensure that everyone has the skills and confidence to benefit from it, whether that's in the workplace, in business, or in everyday life."

Microsoft's involvement was formalised through Kevin Marshall, head of Future Living at Microsoft Ireland, who served as Chair of the National Skills Council during the platform's development. The initiative was first announced at Microsoft Ireland's 40th anniversary celebrations in November 2025.

SOLAS has indicated that additional free courses covering technology, sustainability, business and further AI content are available through its eCollege platform for learners seeking provision beyond the four AIReady.ie courses.

Access the full details of the AIReady.ie launch and course offerings in the original report.