The Investment, Industry and IT Ministry has opened a Community Training Learning Centre (CTLC), that is supported by HP. The centre, the sixth of 12 CTLCs that are expected to be opened in Malta, is located at the premises of the Physically Handicapped Rehabilita-tion Fund (PHRF).

The aim of the Community Training Learning Centres is to make learning about technology more accessible. People who have technological skills are more employable and have a higher earning capacity. In addition, a knowledge of ICT offers new opportunities and leads to a higher standard of living, as well as improved communication channels between the government and the community.

The Physically Handicapped Rehabilitation Fund, which is run by volunteers, was founded in 1946, after the epidemic of Infantile Paralysis in 1942 during World War Two.

“HP is proud to be able to contribute to the rehabilitation of these outstanding people and their re-introduction into society,” said HP CDG managing director Franz Scherz.

“In a society where technology plays an imperative role, this initiative provides the facilities for the members of the PHRF to learn about technology and practice on the HP equipment provided in the centre. This will further their education and facilitate their rehabilitation in education and employment in society.”

MAP (Micro Enterprise Acceleration Programme) is sponsored by Hewlett-Packard. The MAP solution includes a fully operational, ready-to-go MAP training centre, HP equipment, a 19-module curriculum, the professional training of trainers and support.

For more information about the HP MAP programme, visit the following websites: http://www.hp.com/e-inclusion/en/project/map/index.html and http://www.mea-i.org/.

The other five Learning and Technology Centres that have been supported by HP are at Access Centre in Vittoriosa, the National Council of Women’s offices in Blata l-Bajda, the Eden Foundation Complex at Bulebel, at the premises of the Union Haddiema Maghqudin and at the Richmond Foundation.

Another six centres, including two in Gozo, are expected to open this year.