More than 4,000 people have already registered for the latest Microsoft software that is being offered to students and teachers at a subsidised price. Microsoft Vista and Office 2007 will be sold at Lm46 instead of the normal price of Lm350 when they are launched on the domestic market in the new year.
The deadline for registration of this package was first set for 15 December, but the Investment, Industry and IT Ministry has decided to extend the deadline until further notice, so that students and teachers who would like to register for the Microsoft package at a subsidised rate may still do so.
This initiative, which forms part of the strategic alliance between the government and Microsoft and is the third offer for students and teachers, was launched last month and the number of registrations has exceeded all expectations, so this shows a strong interest among students to use the latest technologies, the Ministry said in a statement yesterday.
Minister Austin Gatt expressed satisfaction that Maltese families have shown a strong interest in using the latest technological systems.
“This means that Maltese families will remain among the highest users of the latest technology and the internet in Europe, and this will continue to strengthen the Maltese information society,” said Dr Gatt.
Students and teachers who would like to register for the 2007 package need to have purchased the 2005 Microsoft package, which is still available at a subsidised rate of Lm13.99 from any Maltapost branch, or from shops selling IT products.
The Windows Vista Ultimate edition is being offered by means of this scheme, which has more advanced characteristics than the standard Windows Vista version.
This operation system is designed in such a way that it is easier for anyone who wants to use it for working from home, while travelling or for enjoyment purposes.
It is the first operation system that incorporates advanced infrastructural aspects that focus on these three main uses. Its designers therefore kept in mind the needs of organisations, while facilitating mobility, and included services for digital entertainment that are of interest to the private consumer.
The Ministry also announced that people with a disability will be offered a free copy of Microsoft Vista and Microsoft Office 2007 – a scheme that was set up in collaboration with the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (KNPD).