Cisco Systems supports ITU in Qatar

World Telecommunications Development Conference 2006 seen as a perfect forum for 'Gender Initiatives'

Doha, March 8, 2006 : Cisco Systems strengthened its relationship by signing a letter of Intent (LoI) with ITU (International Telecommunications Union) to develop Internet Training Centers (ITC) in the region . The LoI was signed at the World Telecommunications Development Conference (WTDC) 2006 in Qatar. Also, Cisco Systems, in a joint effort, with ITU is awarding scholarships for 100 women to attend the ITU-Cisco Internet Training Centres.

Cisco supports the work of the ITU to improve the lives of people around the world through effective use of technology. The ITU-Cisco partnership has created the Internet Training Center Initiative and has established over 60 Training Centers in 49 fast growing countries with more than 5000 students in the last 5 years. The LoI will help Cisco Systems continue to focus on building long-term sustainability in many of the existing centres.

In May 2001, the ITU Development Bureau launched their Internet Training Centers initiative (ITC's) for fast developing countries, with the aim to provide students and professionals access to affordable and relevant IT training. Cisco joined this global initiative to extend the Cisco Networking Academy program to 50 ITC's around the world.

"Cisco Systems and the Cisco Learning Institute partnered to develop the Gender Initiative project to empower women in the field of IT. Beginning with the Cisco Networking Academy Program, this global initiative seeks ways to increase IT awareness, provide access to IT training and generate career opportunities for women," said Mark De Simone, Vice President for Middle East and Africa.

Mark further stated that, "Gender Initiatives have been a key component of the ITU-Cisco Training Center partnership. Since its inception, a goal has been followed to have 30 per cent female students in each program. As of January 2006, just under 30 per cent of the students and more than 20 per cent of the instructors have been women. Cisco Systems is pleased to be a part of the social web of the Middle East.

Cisco also hosted a power breakfast for women on March 8, 2006 to mark the international women's day at the WTDC.