• Why is Bertelsmann offering such a comprehensive, international scholarship program?

Because we see the transformation to digital first and foremost as an opportunity – for each individual, for Bertelsmann and for society. This is also the core message of our new international media campaign ‘AI. And I can do more’, which launches today. Artificial intelligence can be a valuable aid to creativity, innovation and efficiency – but only if we have sufficient skills. With these scholarships, we give our employees and thousands of other interested parties the opportunity to acquire these skills.

• How many scholarships is Bertelsmann awarding?

Over a period of six years – from 2019 to today – we have awarded 50,000 scholarships, twice, for a total of 100,000. That is a remarkable number. Our accompanying digital campaigns have reached more than 441 million people in practically every country in the world since 2019, 240 million last year alone. This shows the clout Bertelsmann can have as an advocate for the field of tech & data. And our journey is not over yet. We are all hoping for a grand finale by the application deadline on November 30. I look forward to every application, especially those from our colleagues.

Now it's your turn! Take this opportunity and apply for the scholarship to level up your skills in the Tech & Data field and become fit for the digital future.​​​​​ Apply by November 30!

• How many people have applied to date?

There have been 230,000 applicants from no less than 190 countries around the world so far. I am incredibly pleased about this. It shows that have hit bull’s-eye with our campaign and program, and are getting people around the world excited about taking a positive approach to new technologies.

• Which partners is Bertelsmann working with this year, and what are the central topics?

Our colleagues can choose between several renowned providers such as Harvard Online, Udacity, and Coursera, some of which we have been working with for many years. The course content covers the spectrum of “Tech, Data & AI” that is relevant to Bertelsmann. Harvard Online, for example, teaches basic data science concepts that can be used to make data-based decisions. Udacity offers practical courses for various levels of experience in areas such as business intelligence analytics, IT security, digital marketing, growth product management, and generative AI. And Coursera offers a one-year online license with access to short learning modules as well as longer courses at top universities.

• Does digitalization give a whole new meaning to continuing education and upskilling?

I’m absolutely certain that it does. In view of the rapid pace of technological development, ongoing upskilling is essential for Bertelsmann. The Employee Scholarship Program is designed to help make employees fit for the digital future and strengthen Bertelsmann’s competitiveness.

• What role does the digital campaign play in this?

The campaign has an enormous reach. This has a direct impact on the number of applications, but also draws attention to an issue of fundamental importance for our future. The scholarship program and campaign have been successfully interlinked for six years. They whet people’s appetite for digital transformation. And they are further proof of Bertelsmann’s commitment to social responsibility.

• How important is the topic to you personally?

For me, an open, responsible and opportunity-oriented approach to new technologies is the key to the future. To demonstrate this internally and externally, we set up the 2019 digital campaigns – and I was involved in each of the six major campaigns. I lent my face to the ads and commercials to emphasize that the topics of digitalization and technological training are an important topic to me personally.

• What pleased you most about the response to the campaigns?

Their internationality. Our campaign attracted worldwide attention with commercials and ads in international media and online. The ads even ran on the huge LED screens in New York’s Times Square. And all this led to Bertelsmann being digital and technology-savvy and being perceived as such, too. (read the BeNet article here)

Apply Now!

01-10-2024

Bertelsmann Employee Scholarship 2024

The Final Round of the Employee Scholarship Program is Here

It's that time again! We're thrilled to announce that the final round of the Employee Scholarship Program is kicking off today. This is your last chance to grab one of the 1,100 scholarships available for top-tier learning opportunities in Tech, Data & AI. Whether you're looking to expand your skills in AI, data analysis, or IT security, we've got something for you.

Why This Matters

Since 2022 Bertelsmann has been dedicated to equipping our employees with the digital skills needed for the future. Whether you're a long-time employee or a newcomer, this initiative is designed to prepare you for the challenges ahead. Thomas Rabe, our CEO, puts it best:

"The technological transformation is happening at a rapid pace and affects all lines of business. Bertelsmann has been resolutely advancing the digital transformation for years. Our Employee Scholarship Program enables our employees to build knowledge in the most sought-after technology areas such as artificial intelligence, IT security and data analysis. This not only strengthens their skills, but also promotes innovation. I encourage you all to seize this opportunity and apply for a scholarship. The scholarships are an important investment in each and every one of us - and in our common future."

What’s on Offer?

This year, we continue to partner with renowned educational platforms like Udacity, Coursera and Harvard Online to bring you an array of courses tailored to your needs.

- Udacity: From beginners to experts, Udacity offers a range of practical courses. Graduates will receive an internationally recognized Nanodegree certificate.

- Coursera: Enjoy a year-long license to explore a wide variety of courses, both short and long, from top universities and leading tech companies. 

- Harvard Online: Perfect for leaders wanting to grasp fundamental data science concepts in just four weeks. No prior knowledge required, and you'll earn a Harvard Online certificate upon completion.

Insights from Immanuel Hermreck

Immanuel Hermreck, our Chief HR Officer, underscores the importance of this initiative:

"The continuous professional development of our colleagues is of essential importance for Bertelsmann. We are going to need more and more skills in the areas of tech & data and artificial intelligence. Our Employee Scholarship Program is a central component of our strategy to make our employees fit for the digital future. The aim is to give all employees the opportunity to develop new tech & data skills, and to meet the vast interest in topics relating to artificial intelligence. This will promote the competitiveness of our business and make us even more attractive as an employer."

How to Apply

Ready to take the plunge? The application window is open now, and you have until November 30, 2024, to apply. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to boost your skills and contribute to our collective success.

Click here to apply and for more details.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make this final round the best one yet!