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Software firm PT Microsoft Indonesia launched a US$140,000
Microsoft Information Technology Academy (ITA) program Tuesday in
Indonesia aimed at helping produce competent professionals in the IT
field.
The program is part of Microsoft's global IT learning solutions scheme,
which connects teachers, students and communities in support of the
growing need for digital competency in the next generation of
professionals and community leaders. It helps students during their
early IT experience.
Public-sector director at Microsoft Indonesia, Andreas Pardyanto, said
that the company would roll out the ITA program in 70 vocational high
schools across the country this year.
"We're ready to start the program in 30 vocational high schools during
the first stage, and the remaining 40 schools during the second.
Hopefully, all this can be done this year," he said.
The program is directed at all formal educational institutions from
high school up to university, said Andreas.
However, he explained, during the initial stage the company would focus
on 70 vocational high schools, as recommended by the Education
Ministry, as these schools offered such subjects as computer and IT
studies.
Program manager Ismail Syah said that the program would cost $2,000 per
ITA each year.
"In the first year, Microsoft will cover the entire cost," he said.
The cost, however, does not include $35 for sitting the certification
examination offered by the Microsoft Certified Professional program and
the $25 fee for sitting the Microsoft Office Specialist Program
examination. This program provides training on the use of Microsoft
Word, Excel, Access, Outlook and PowerPoint, added Andreas.
According to Ismail, students participating in the scheme would get
various benefits, such as access to original software, certification
examination discounts, a comprehensive training library, and help in
seeking employment.
Meanwhile, teachers would gain training on the latest Microsoft
technologies, including access to prepared curricula, tools and
resources that would further enhance their students' classroom
experiences.
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