TECHNOLOGY firm Microsoft have teamed up with New College Lanarkshire to help equip students and communities with the latest digital skills.

College students will receive free support in learning new skills in artificial intelligence, with direct access to Microsoft experts.

The aim of the partnership - the first of its kind in Scotland - is to supply students with skills to enter the digital industry.

Professor Christopher Moore, principal of New College Lanarkshire said: “By 2025, it is expected that over 149 million new technology jobs will become available in areas such as software development, cloud, data, artificial intelligence and security.

"It is vital that we ensure our students have the talent and training to support these needs and fuel economic future growth."

Anthony Salcito, vice president of Microsoft, said: “Microsoft is proud to be collaborating with New College Lanarkshire to empower and educate students to thrive in the digital economy."