Global recruiter Manpower and solutions and software development systems provider Microsoft are developing joint programmes to help fight youth unemployment.

The Memorandum of Understanding sees Microsoft and Manpower work with other partners to develop a training curriculum for young entrepreneurs to foster leading-edge technical, organisational and business development skills.

Starting in the Middle East and Africa, the two organisations will also participate jointly in training, mentoring, career guidance, work-preparation, job-linkage and entrepreneurship projects for youth, first in this region and then across the globe.

David Arkless, Manpower president of corporate and government affairs, says: “Corporations have a moral obligation to foster innovation among young people, not just from a social responsibility standpoint, but because in the human age, it will be the source of that innovation, passion and creativity that will be the catalyst for change and the global driving force economically, politically and socially.”

Sharif Khan, HR director Microsoft Middle East and Africa, adds: “By broadening access to technology and entrepreneurial skills, we can unlock the potential of individuals and communities, and find solutions to some of today’s most pressing societal challenges.”