MICROSOFT CO-FOUNDER BILL GATES STEPS DOWN FROM COMPANY'S BOARD OF DIRECTORS 

After 45 years of starting the software giant company, Microsoft, announced that co-founder Bill Gates is leaving the board of directors. 

The 64-year-old, took this decision so that he could devote more time to philanthropy and turn his attention to the foundation he launched with his wife, Melinda. He wishes to focus on global health and development, education and tackling climate change.

Meanwhile, Microsoft chief executive and company veteran Satya Nadella in a release said. "It's been a tremendous honor and privilege to have worked with and learned from Bill over the years. Bill founded our company with a belief in the democratizing force of software and a passion to solve society's most pressing challenges; and Microsoft and the world are better for it."

Nadella further stated that Microsoft would keep in touch and continue to benefit from Gates' as a "technical passion and advice." 

"I am grateful for Bill's friendship and look forward to continuing to work alongside him," Nadella added.

Earlier in 2000, Bill Gates had left his CEO position to Steve Ballmer so that he could give more time to his charitable foundation.