<< back to previous page
Microsoft aims to develop IT skills
News Article Published:
Friday, 25 April 2008 Category:
Science, IT and Engineering
A new course designed to help people develop key computer skills has been launched by Microsoft.
The Digital Literacy curriculum offers free training on basic concepts that will help employees learn how to succeed in the workplace. Learndirect will provide the course, which can result in a qualification recognised by OCR.
Stephen Uden, Microsoft's head of skills and economic affairs, told Personnel Today: "Many people are afraid of computers and it stops them getting jobs.
"We feel as a responsible player, representing a significant chunk of the IT industry, companies need to roll their sleeves up to improve skills levels."
Mr Uden added the IT sector is expected to experience significant growth over the next few years. This could be threatened, however, given that graduate recruitment was being made more difficult by a shortage of trained individuals.
Microsoft recently found that four in five jobs involve some use of a computer. Despite this one in six workers lack the skills to perform their duties to the required level.
