TEVTA, Oracle agree to train 45,000 students

Programme will help impart core computer knowledge to youth

LAHORE: In a bid to train 45,000 students, Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority (TEVTA) and Oracle Academy signed an agreement to integrate Oracle Academy programmes in 150 institutions across Punjab.

The agreement was inked by TEVTA Chairperson Irfan Qaiser Sheikh and Oracle Pakistan Country Head Syed Azam Abidi.

By signing the agreement, TEVTA hoped to integrate Oracle Academy programmes into its 150 institutes where IT is part of the curriculum. Over the next three years, the agreement will also aid the training of 150 TEVTA master trainers for the programme and provide curriculum and required software for the offered courses under the agreement.

“TEVTA is trying its best to make technical and vocational training more accessible for our youth throughout the province,” Irfan Qaiser said.

“We hope that by integrating the world-class computer science curriculum provided by Oracle Academy into our training programmes, we can boost the confidence of our students and equip them with 21st century skills which are imperative for successful careers.”

The institution will get Oracle software and Oracle Academy curriculum resources, he maintained.

The TEVTA chief pointed out that the authority would also receive full academic curriculum in vendor neutral, foundational concepts, skills and technologies, such as database and Java. He said the faculty of colleges will receive free training from Oracle Academy trainers, thus upgrading their professional skills and knowledge.

Irfan said the programme aimed to train students for real life scenarios with demonstrable skills and knowledge aligned with the industry.

Through the initiative, students would be exposed to the latest technology and curriculum, while pursuing education. He added this would prepare them for globally-recognised Oracle certification examinations which may lead to better job placement.

He said that four months training programme will be free of cost which would benefit the youth as they could avail job opportunities in the IT sector, not only in Pakistan, but other countries as well.

Oracle Country Head Azam Abidi observed that the agreement between TEVTA and the Oracle Academy would enable hundreds of teachers and students in Punjab to learn new skills and develop core computing knowledge which is aligned with industry demands.

Abidi added that Oracle Academy advances computer science education globally to drive knowledge, innovation and skill development in technology fields. He added the academy offered free and complete portfolio of software and curriculum.

“The programme works with public and private partners to provide the tools and educators needed to engage, inspire and prepare students to become innovators and future leaders,” he said.

He stated programme would help students gain hands-on experience with the latest technologies.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 11^th, 2018.