ATLANTA - Gov. Sonny Perdue has announced a partnership between the state and Microsoft that will provide free technology training for Georgians, especially the unemployed.
Perdue on Friday launched the public-private initiative "Microsoft Elevate America" with Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer.
"Many individuals do not possess critical skills needed in today's changing economy," Ballmer said in a news release. "We believe that through a strong partnership with the state of Georgia, the training can lead to employment opportunity and ultimately grow Georgia's economy."
The company will partner with the Governor's Office of Workforce Development to distribute at least 25,900 vouchers during the next 90 days. They can be used for courses including basic technology literacy, intermediate and advanced level technology skills training and Microsoft Certification exams.
Perdue said the partnership will provide thousands of Georgians with the education and skills they will need once the economy rebounds. While the program is open to all Georgia residents, it is targeted for those hit by the down economy and looking for work.
Georgia's unemployment rate was 10.3 percent in December, above the national average of 10 percent.
The training vouchers are redeemable for free online training in Microsoft Windows or one of the Microsoft Office suite programs. Certification exam vouchers are redeemable for Microsoft Business Certification exams. Advanced technical professional level vouchers are redeemable for free online training for individuals in technical professional career tracks, including Web development or database management.
Vouchers will be available to Georgia residents through April 22 on a first-come, first-served basis. Individuals must use their vouchers for training and complete certification exams within the 90 day period.
Announced in February 2009, "Microsoft Elevate America" is an initiative expected to provide up to 1 million vouchers nationwide for Microsoft e-Learning courses and select Microsoft certification exams at little or no cost to recipients. The program is expected to provide technology training for up to 2 million people during the next three years.
Georgia is the 10th state to participate in the program.
Vouchers will be distributed through the Georgia Work Ready Web site, at participating Workforce Investment Act One Stop Centers and select Goodwill locations.
___
On the Net:
Georgia Work Ready: http://www.gaworkready.org
Comments
I went to the website in order to research the possibility of obtaining the certification vouchers. My husband has been unemployed since June 19, 2009 and I have been unemployed since December, 2009.
When I got to the site, I looked through the WHOLE site for something to take me to applying for the voucher, but everything I clicked on took me NOWHERE.
Where are we supposed to go? This program would really help us, so could someone lead us in the right direction - PLEASE.
That's part of the test, you need to understand computers enough to find it. Good luck!
The article says the vouchers "will be distributed." That indicates they are not currently being distributed. Unfortunately no date is given as to when they will begin the process.
P3h
the link is right at the bottom of the page under whats new
Elevate America is providing free computer skills training to Georgians. Click here to learn more.
when i clicked on it it took me right to where to apply for a voucher.. good luck
The Augusta Chronicle ©2012. All Rights Reserved.
