Applications for the second edition of the Epitome course are now open. This course is aimed at enterprises and individuals who wish to broaden their knowledge on the use of ICT in business and thus reap the benefits this technology has to offer.
“Not only did a considerable number of participants who successfully completed the course recognise the practical aspects of ICT but we actually implemented what they learnt during the course in their respective businesses,” said Malta Communications Authority chairman Philip Micallef. “Results were immediate and beneficial for those businesses which showed commitment to this training.”
Like the first course, training is being offered free. However, to safeguard the limited number of applications that can be received (200 places are available), the authority is requesting a €100 deposit. The deposit is fully refundable on the successful completion of at least 75 per cent of the course.
The course is aimed at micro-enterprise owners and their employees, the self-employed and SMEs. The training includes practical sessions on computers, tutorials in small groups, a number of workshops and a half-day conference.
The training is based on a curriculum specifically developed for the needs of the Maltese enterprise. These needs were identified through a study conducted purposely to bring to light the particular skills required by the Maltese enterprise.
The training is aimed at addressing skills gaps of owners and employees of these enterprises. Among the skills identified are the different uses of internet in business, more effective use of ICT in business and how businesses can maintain a positive relationship with the client base. Training in Malta will be offered at two centrally-located training centres: St Martin Institute for IT, Blata l-Bajda and Smart City, Kalkara.
Training in Gozo will be delivered at a training centre in Victoria. The course will be delivered over 20 weeks and will commence in the first week of November, with a two-week recess during Christmas, allowing participants to make the most of increased commercial activity at that time of year.
Applications, which may be collected from local councils, need to be sent by registered mail together with a copy of the identity card and a €100 cheque (payable to the Malta Communications Author-ity) to: Malta Communications Authority, Valletta Waterfront, Pinto Wharf, Floriana, FRN 1913.
Interested applicants may also visit the Epitome project site at mca.org.mt/epitome to complete an online application. Applicants who apply online have to send the cheque and a copy of their ID card by registered mail.
Applications have to reach the authority’s offices by October 19.
Participants who will successfully complete the course will be awarded an MQF level 3 certificate, which is recognised by the Malta Qualifications Council.
For more information one may contact the authority by call-ing 2205 9229 or by e-mailing nicholas.g.vella@mca.org.mt or andrew.meli@mca.org.mt .
The Epitome project, which is co-financed by the European Social Fund and National Funds, provides a learning opportunity in a range of much-needed ICT skills for small and medium-sized enterprises, microenterprises and the self-employed.