Microsoft apparently sees a need for more and better IT workers. This week, the company announced a new partnership with the Alabama Department of Education to help teach more high school students about computer technology.
In a press release, Microsoft announced it would help launch the Alabama Microsoft IT Academy Program, which begins with one student from each of Alabama"s school systems selected to participate. The students that join the academy will be able to earn official certifications in using Microsoft software products such as Excel, Word and PowerPoint. More students will be picked to join the academy in the next school year.
The picture above shows Alabama Governor Robert Bentley talking with some of the students that were picked for the new IT academy.
The press release states:
The Microsoft IT Academy Program will provide participating local school systems with access to Web-based instruction, software lab licenses, e-learning and official course materials. Course topics will range from computer basics to high-level programming and database management. Students will get hands-on experience with the latest Microsoft software and e-learning resources. This program will also allow students to earn professional-level workplace credentials and technology skills before they graduate from high school.
This is the seventh state in the United States that has teamed up with Microsoft to launch a student IT academy.
Source: Microsoft press release | Image via Microsoft