Apple has announced it is donating to a program aimed at enhancing employment and skills development for young people in less-developed areas of China.

The youth employment and workforce development program, run by the China Development Research Foundation (CDRF), will establish partnerships with vocational schools, industry leaders, researchers and policymakers to equip students with the skills needed for current and future job markets.

Tim Cook, Apple's CEO, said "Education is one of the most powerful drivers of opportunity."

"With so much innovation happening today, it has never been more important to ensure students have access to the skills and training they need to thrive. We're excited to build on our longtime partnership with CDRF to create new pathways between vocational education and the high-tech careers of the future."

With this latest contribution, Apple's total donations to the CDRF have reached nearly 150 million yuan ($21.8 million). According to the company, the new funding underscores Apple's ongoing dedication to supporting communities across China, an effort that has already benefited nearly two million teachers and students.