Free ECDL course at Zurrieq (2)

Over 250 people applied for the course. During the meeting held on March 22 and not on March 9, applicants were advised that the course had intensive material, which leads them to the European Computer Driving License (ECDL) certification.

This is not just a course to increase one's knowledge but by which one could obtain certification by July. A number of participants showed interest in taking a revision crash course. People with no knowledge of IT were instructed to apply for the Beginners' Course, also being offered for free, this summer.

For the residents' comfort, TCTC paid hundreds of pounds to register Zurrieq Centre with Litmus (European Automated Testing System) so TCTC could give a better service and make things easier for residents as normally exams take place in Naxxar/Paola.

The advert promoted free tuition. A special offer of Lm36 was offered to all. This included the seven modules plus the Skill Card, normally costing Lm42 and was valid until May 31. Participants who wished to apply for single modules could do so at a fee of Lm4 for each exam. Such an offer served as an incentive for Zurrieq applicants to apply for exams since after July students may sit for exams only in Naxxar/Paola.

During May TCTC was offering ECDL courses at Lm100. In Zurrieq tuition was offered for free since it was subsidised by TCTC with the local council.

It is evident that such courses are successful not only in Zurrieq but around Malta and Gozo. Our company strives to offer opportunities to all the citizens with quality training irrespective of age, gender and pocket.

TCTC's challenge is to collaborate with public entities and other organisations that are sensitive to their communities. Conquering the digital divide by building an equitable information society for all is an opportunity we cannot afford to neglect. Communities have already shown their willingness to learn and have joined forces, leading to fruitful opportunities for all parties involved in ICT learning.