Free diploma in ICT through EU funds

The Malta Information Technology Agency has launched a new initiative named ‘Second Step Training Programme’ which enables participants to achieve a diploma in ICT for free.

This is co-financed by the European Union through the European Social Fund and national funds with a co-financing rate of 85 per cent EU funds and 15 per cent National Funds, the agency said.

MITA’s chairman, Claudio Grech, said that the industry’s needs for skilled ICT professionals are currently not being met and this shortage is increasing year on year. The situation locally is very similar to the European context. However, Malta has made big advances in terms of ICT graduates from MCAST, University and other training providers.

“Relying solely on the young talent will not be sufficient to meet the skill needs of the future. We need to cultivate a culture where skills and talents are developed throughout life”, he added.

Peter Xuereb, chief officer of the newly established Human Capital Department within MITA, explained that the Second Step training programme contributes towards Government’s ambition of establishing Malta as a centre of technology excellence and it also promotes equal opportunities by targeting different groups to improve their employability.

Second Step targets individuals who are unemployed, at risk of unemployment, those employed in the manufacturing industry, women who would like to return to work, school leavers and those who opt to advance or change their career. The training programme, spanning over two years, is available on full- or part-time basis and applicants should choose among three ICT national diplomas in information systems, information technology and computing and information systems.

Successful participants will be awarded a BTEC National Diploma in their chosen area. This is a Level 4 EQF/MQF certification that is fully recognised by the Malta Qualifications Recognition Information Centre.

Applications are accepted exclusively through an online registration form at www.mita.gov.mt. Applications close on August 8.