University students are increasingly enjoying the benefits of Microsoft specialised training courses. Microsoft Malta teamed up with the Faculty of ICT at the University of Malta and is offering a course in Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist: Windows Development. This is currently being delivered to undergraduates over a period of nine months under the IT Academy Program.

The Dean of the Faculty of Information and Communication Technology, Ernest Cachia introduced the course to prospective students, together with Karl Davies-Barrett, Developer Platform Evangelist at Microsoft Malta, John Abela, senior lecturer at the Faculty of ICT and Natasa Pantovic, Head of Business Development at Crimsonwing PLC.

“There has never been so many opportunities in ICT as there are right now, however it is imperative that students and graduates are ready to take full advantage of them,” said Karl Davies-Barrett, Developer Platform Evangelist at Microsoft Malta. “A Microsoft Certification adds value to an ICT degree and will definitely contribute to any individual’s curriculum vitae, by proving both technical knowledge and real-world experience”

“The importance of training is rapidly increasing as it is required in each and every field in this growing world,” said Natasa Pantovic from Crimsonwing PLC. “In today’s competitive environment students need to make themselves employable. Teaching students how to apply the knowledge they gain in class through hands-on job oriented training empowers students to embark in a successful ICT career. Microsoft’s vendor certification prepares students for the career world whilst making them more employable.”

Back in 2007, Microsoft Malta set up a Microsoft Dynamics Lab at the University of Malta. The Lab is equipped with Microsoft Dynamics Products and has provided students access to a wealth of information and specialised courses and events.

As part of the of the MSDynAA (Microsoft Dynamics Academic Alliance) and People Readiness programme, last October, Microsoft Malta held a four day training event at the Microsoft Dynamics Lab. Themed “Introduction to ERP and Dynamics NAV”, the course was designed by Crimsonwing PLC, a Microsoft Gold Partner, and presented by Ms. Karen Theuma, Microsoft Nav consultant for Crimsonwing PLC.

“We received an overwhelming response from students on Microsoft’s ERP and Dynamics NAV course. We are already planning to hold additional training sessions in the near future to meet the demand,” said Karl Davies-Barrett.