RIYADH, 22 June 2006 — Some have been taken but more seats are available for Filipinos in the Central Region who may want to participate in the Microsoft Tulay Project, according to Welfare Officer Mamerto Mercado of the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO).
“If need be, we will try putting up additional classes to accommodate more OFWs who may to avail themselves of this opportunity,” Mercado said.
Classes formally start today.
The Philippine Labor Department and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) have partnered with computer software giant Microsoft in implementing the project which provides IT training and access to technology that will enable OFW families to communicate via the Internet.
Tulay is part of Microsoft’s Unlimited Potential (UP), a global initiative focused on providing technology skills for “underserved individuals.” Recipients of UP grants are public centers where people can gain IT skills and training to help themselves and their communities.
Supporting the project in Riyadh is the Computer Society of Filipinos (Comsofil), which provides instructors, and the Filipino Expatriates Health, Education, and Livelihood Program (FEHELP).
The OWWA has received a grant of computer equipment for the establishment of Tulay Community Technology Learning Centers in its head office in Manila, regional office in Cebu, and its Filipino Workers Resource Center in different parts of the world.
In Riyadh, the resource center, located at the ground floor of the POLO office inside the Diplomatic Quarter, has 20 brand new personal computers for use in the training.
Under the rules, only active OWWA members can avail themselves of the service. But Mercado said expired membership can also be activated at the center.
Interested participants will only have to fill out a form and can be accommodated in one of the 4 classes on Thursdays and Fridays — one class in the morning and another one in the afternoon during weekends.
Those who may want to avail themselves of the training may inquire from Mercado at (01) 483-2201 to 03 extension 200 or 05571-01563.
OFWs and their families receive free training in basic computer applications, such as Word, Excel (for simple accounting and budgeting) and e-mail/web functions. Those already armed with basic computing skills can take advanced courses. Through Tulay, the OWWA expects OFWs to gain IT skills that will enhance their work, thus increasing their value in the workplace.
The skills they will learn will further help them become competitive, and empower them when they decide to pursue a career when come home from abroad.