Microsoft has launched the Smart Women programme in Malta, which will provide free training in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at different levels, as well as childcare facilities, also free of charge.
The programme leads to Microsoft certification in different streams of specialisation. The Government of Malta is also offering free courses to encourage women to participate in the ICT world. The Smart Women programme aims to increase the number of women in ICT as currently there is a gender imbalance. The free ICT training course will empower women with new skills as well as enhance their value in the labour market by becoming certified in areas for which there is a huge demand. According to the president of the National Council of Women, Doreen Micallef, this initiative will help fulfill a number of the council’s objectives, which includes the integration of women in the labour market and also offers equal opportunities to women and bridging the gender pay gap. The courses will include a basic computer course and three streams of specialisation in the business, development and technical areas.
