Microsoft Malta Ltd, in collaboration with the Ministry for Investment, Industry and Information Technology (MIIIT), has launched a free training programme leading to Microsoft certification for Maltese women Minister Austin Gatt told a press briefing at the Hilton Malta.
Veronika Prikrylova, general manager Microsoft, Market Development Central and Eastern Europe, presented an overview of the percentages of women working in information and communication technology (ICT) sector and women who are economically inactive within Europe. Ms Prikrylova said that in general, ICT is seen more of an opportunity for a male audience rather than for females. Through its Unlimited Potential programme, Microsoft is endeavouring to improve also the participation of women in the ICT workforce.
It is calculated that six out of every 10 Maltese women are economically inactive. Given the ever increasing demand for human resources in ICT in Malta, Microsoft has developed a series of courses to build and enhance information and communication technology (ICT) skills through different levels of certifications and different streams of specialisation.
This programme builds on the collaboration with the Ministry for Investment, Industry and Information Technology, where together with Microsoft it started off from the basics to bridge the digital divide with the introduction of community technology learning centres (CTLCs) in a number of localities around Malta.
“The free specialist ICT training course will empower women with new skills as well as enhance their value in the labour market by becoming certified in areas for which there is a huge demand,” said Pierre Mallia, country manager, Microsoft Malta Ltd.
The first basic course for those with little or no ICT knowledge is the Microsoft Digital Literacy Certification (DLC). This course provides basic computer knowledge and skills, enabling the use of a computer in everyday life with confidence.
On completion of the first phase, participants can gain more in depth knowledge by getting certified in Technical Stream, Development Stream or Business Stream.
Further details and online applications can be obtained by visiting www.thesmartisland. gov.mt or one may phone on tel. 2125-5495. The closing date for applications is 28 March.