RIYADH, 10 June 2007 — Some 636 Filipinos in Riyadh who have opted to spend their weekends during the past months with the Computer Society of Filipinos are now certified to be computer-literate.

The graduates received their diplomas and certificates during Comsofil’s 15th commencement exercises at the Riyadh International School quadrangle in Sulaimaniyah District last week.

An elated Ambassador Antonio P. Villamor, the guest speaker during the ceremony, cited the graduates for making good use of their spare time.

He urged others to do the same instead of engaging in “non-productive” activities.He also cited Comsofil for its continuing service to the Filipino community in the central region, enabling those who did not have any chance of learning about computers in the Philippines to enhance their skills.

Comsofil’s past graduates included janitors, cooks, drivers and hospital workers. Many of them are known to have experienced improved economic standing.

The new graduates completed either computer fundamentals such as word processor, presentation and electronic spreadsheet; programming fundamentals such as MS Access fundamentals, MS Visual Basic.Net and accounting automation; PC assembly; Macromedia Flash, Adobe Photoshop CS2, Web Development, ACAD Basic & Advance; or Networking 1 & 2.

Comsofil President Jun Muga said his group makes sure that their students also learn from outside the confines of the classrooms. “So, we visited NESMA Data Center in March bringing our networking students to expose them to actual learning and training,” he said.

Souvenir Programs entitled “Technocrats, 3rd Edition” were distributed and new instructors and support staff were presented during the graduation rites. Students who took part in Comsofil’s 4th Inter-cluster basketball tournaments, sponsored by Kruathai Restaurant and OFW Kargo Services, were given recognition.

Quadrillion Sales Inc. sponsored the commencement exercises by giving away free vouchers and certificates for a one-day stay in one of its resorts and hotels in the Philippines. It also promoted opportunities on acquiring and buying assets in the Philippines such as house and lot and condominium units.

Riyadh Artists Guild International (RAGI) entertained the graduates and guests with various production numbers.