ICDL GCC Foundation said it has signed up Sabis University, Kurdistan as a distinguished partner to promote digital awareness and promulgate IT literacy in Iraq.

ICDL GCC Foundation is the governing body and certification authority of the International Computer Driving Licence program in the Gulf region and Iraq.

Under the agreement, ICDL GCC Foundation will accredit Sabis University and The International School of Choueifat in Erbil as ICDL partners in the delivery of training and testing on ICDL programs, said a top official.

'The move is aimed to spread IT awareness through the introduction and implementation of ICDL into the mainstream teaching system of Sabis University in addition to actively engaging in activities to promote and further develop IT awareness within all segments of the society,' explained Raed Mahmoud, Sabis representative in Kurdistan.

The ICDL program is supported and initiated in Iraq by Unesco - Iraq Office, and this unique partnership extends to raise awareness not only within the education system, but also targeting various social groups in the society including; women, retirees, job seekers, people with special needs, and economically disadvantaged individuals.

The program complements government efforts to promote digital literacy and create a 'digitally aware' society in Iraq.

Under the deal, both ICDL GCC Foundation and Sabis will demonstrate their joint ability at the Erbil International Fair to be held in the Kurdistan Region from October 18 to 21.

'This is an imperative move that gives students of Sabis University and the citizens of Kurdistan, Iraq direct access to ICDL certification. Being an internationally recognised standard, ICDL will certainly enhance the competitive edge of our students and expand their future career prospects,' Mahmoud said.

'Moreover, we recognise ICDL GCC Foundation's efforts to help people of different cultural, economic and social backgrounds to become proficient with basic IT skills. It is therefore a privilege for us to contribute and be part of this remarkable digital literacy initiative that will bring direct benefit to Kurdistan, Iraq,' he added.

Jamil Ezzo, director general of ICDL GCC Foundation, said: 'An integral part of our strategy is to partner with high-profile academic institutions in order to promote digital literacy in the society.'

Sabis Education Services has a strong reputation and history of producing high-calibre students, and our partnership will further boost digital literacy and produce high competent individuals in Kurdistan, Iraq.'

'We intend to leverage the strengths of both of our for the benefit of the government and the people of Kurdistan,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service