Priceless Computer Classes Lead To Good Life

Lily B. Libo-on
Khaleej Times Online
5 April 2009

DUBAI - Against the backdrop of a global economic meltdown, shelling out Dh13,000 to study and be a certified system administrator these days is a costly affair for expatriates. They would rather save a few dirhams more.

But, for 15 Filipinos, the shortest way to the certification process is to take free computer courses on Network Essential, PC Assembly and Network Administration. Computer clubs are all around to make their dream come true.

Jose Carlo Rentar used to receive only Dh2,500 as an IT technical support staff. After passing the Microsoft Certification Professional in December 2008, he is now a system administrator of a big international cargo forwarding firm earning fat bucks since.

Similarly, Rommel Tala came to Dubai five years ago, making coffee at a Starbucks Coffee Store in UAE.

Life turned into comfort and abundance when he decided to take up free computer classes on Web Designing, Adobe for the Web and Flash Animation. For three years, he is now the web developer of a government office
in Abu Dhabi.

Rommel and Jose Carlo are among the 20,000 graduates of the free computer courses, who are now enjoying high stature in different government offices and private companies, earning fat salaries that seemed elusive before.

They have only one thing in common — they have decided once and for all to take up the free computer 
courses available.

A Filipino computer club, in coordination with the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai, is among those offering these computer courses to uplift the lot of those who desire to upgrade their skills.

Of the total, 15 have become Microsoft Certified Professionals (MCP), who just shared 10 Fridays of their time to study and train on Network Essential, Network Administration and managing Windows 2003 Server with Danny Eramiz, a Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT) by paying a registration fee of only Dh220.

Jose Carlo said, “To get an MCP, we normally have to spend Dh13,000 for the course and review, on top of the Dh256 we pay for the
 examinations online.

“With the free courses and review, we have become Microsoft Certified Professionals. We thank all our instructors and trainers.”

Milo Torres, instructor of Web Designing, Adobe for the Web and Flash Animation, stressed that all the FCC instructors are volunteers.

“They share their professional time with the students without
receiving anything.

“They just want to see others benefit from a good life that ensues after upgrading their computer skills in these priceless computer classes.”


lily@khaleejtimes.com