In its effort to remain competitive and relevant to today’s new generation of Windows users around the world, Microsoft unveiled on Thursday a new program that will help an estimated 5 billion people in developing countries. Dubbed as “the Partners in Learning program”, the company introduced a new suite of software, called “Microsoft Student Innovation Suite”, a very affordable and almost free software package for governments purchasing and giving Windows-based PCs to primary and secondary students for their personal use at home and for schoolwork.The education suite includes Windows XP Starter Edition, Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007, Microsoft Math 3.0, Learning Essentials 2.0 for Microsoft Office, and Windows Live Mail desktop.

Microsoft will offer Microsoft Student Innovation Suite in the second half of 2007 for $3 (U.S.) to qualifying governments that purchase and supply PCs directly to students. More information about the offer can be found here.

“The company’s five-year, $250 million investment in its Partners in Learning program is already active in 101 countries, with training that has equipped 2.5 million teachers and reached more than 57 million students across these countries. In addition, through the Partners in Learning program, over 722,000 teachers and students have achieved certification on Microsoft technology. Microsoft also works with industry partners to help guide teachers with the integration of technology into lesson plans and curricula through programs including Intel Corporation’s Teach to the Future and UNESCO’s ICT Competency Standards for Teachers.” Microsoft said.

“All human beings deserve a chance to achieve their full potential,” said Bill Gates, chairman of Microsoft. “Bringing the benefits of technology to the next 5 billion people will require new products that meet the needs of underserved communities; creative, new business approaches that make technology more relevant, accessible and affordable; and close collaboration between local governments, educational institutions and community organizations.” The expansion of Unlimited Potential will focus on three areas, Gates said: education, innovation, and jobs and economic opportunity.

Microsoft also released a white paper titled “Unlimited Potential: Enabling Sustained Social and Economic Opportunity for the Next 5 Billion People,” which details the company’s strategy for strengthening emerging segments. The white paper is available at http://www.microsoft.com/unlimitedpotential/upwhitepaper.