A man walks past the logo of software company Microsoft. Microsoft on Tuesday appointed its first education general to lead the US technology giant's push to get its software into the hands of students and teachers.

Microsoft on Tuesday appointed its first education general to lead the US technology giant's push to get its software into the hands of students and teachers.

Michael Golden is filling a newly created post of vice president of Education Products Group as Microsoft increases attention on schools and colleges where rival Apple has long promoted its Macintosh computers.

Golden was hired to lead Microsoft's global "education vision and strategy execution," according to the Redmond, Washington-based colossus.

Golden's background includes time spent as a deputy secretary in the Pennsylvania Department of Education and as an executive at Pearson School.

Earlier this year Microsoft announced it is pouring an additional 235 million dollars into its Partners in Learning program that provides software and computer training to students and teachers worldwide.

© 2008 AFP