Verizon has announced the launch of a new online education site in collaboration with edX, a prominent worldwide online learning platform from 2U, Inc. (Nasdaq: TWOU), to assist Americans in upskilling and reskilling for today’s fastest-growing jobs. According to recent data, one-third of workers lack the fundamental digital skills required to enter today’s jobs. Verizon Skill Forward, which was previously scheduled to start in 2020, will take use of Verizon’s new strategic collaboration with edX to provide tuition-free, technical and professional routes across in-demand industrial sectors, with Verizon covering the costs for learners.
Participants who register for Verizon Skill Forward will have access to self-paced, expert-led online courses produced by premier universities and industry professionals in edX’s partner network for 12 months at no cost, including specialized courses in Spanish, with no prior experience or college degree required. Participants will have access to curated lists of over 250 courses spanning 84 unique professional certificate programs that they can take on their own time and are designed to help them gain the skills needed to pursue high-growth jobs in artificial intelligence, business, coding, communication, data, finance, IT, and other areas.
Verizon Skill Forward participants will also have continuing access to edX’s Career Engagement Network, which offers a suite of career development and exploration tools, such as career advice, resources, and a job board, as well as industry-related events and workshops. Participants will also have the option to use Skills Builder, a tool designed to match participant career goals to relevant learning opportunities across courses and programs.
edX
This initiative is part of Citizen Verizon, Verizon’s responsible business plan for economic, environmental, and social advancement. It will build on the company’s goal of preparing 500,000 people for future jobs by 2030, as well as accelerate digital inclusion efforts nationwide through access to educational tools and resources.
“In an era where technology is rapidly evolving and the nature of work is constantly shifting, the need for lifelong learning and skill development has never been more critical,” Anant Agarwal, Founder of edX and Chief Platform Officer of 2U, stated. “With Verizon, edX is expanding access to education, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or current skills, can achieve their goals.” This collaboration demonstrates our common confidence in the capacity of high-quality online education to improve the lives of all.”
