Hamilton, Bermuda, May 7, 2012 - Cisco announced today that it has joined forces with the Ministry of Government Estates and Information Services in Bermuda to launch the Cisco Networking Academy™ in the island. The Networking Academy® program will provide Bermudians with the opportunity to receive information and communications technology (ICT) education through effective in-classroom learning combined with innovative cloud-based curricula and tools to prepare students for careers in the 21st-century global economy.
The first academy in Bermuda will be located at Bermuda College, the only tertiary-level institution in Bermuda. The college is committed to setting Bermuda's students on the path to success through the provision of comprehensive academic and technical education, along with professional training, personal and academic support services, quality facilities, and interactive partnerships with local and international entities.
The first course for the CCNA® certification will begin in July 2012 at the Bermuda College. The academy expects to train 36-40 students and nine instructors during 2012, and hopes to significantly increase this number in 2013.
The Networking Academy began in 1997 with 64 schools and has grown to become one of the world's largest classrooms, with 10,000 academies in 165 countries, and nearly 4 million students having participated in the program to date.
A pioneering example of cloud-based education delivery, the Networking Academy teaches students how to design, build, troubleshoot and secure computer networks for increased access to career and economic opportunities in communities around the world. Students who complete the program often go on to secure entry-level career opportunities, participate in continuing education and achieve globally recognized career certifications.
Networking Academy courses are delivered in multiple languages through a cloud-based learning system. Courses are supported by classroom instruction, hands-on learning activities, and interactive online assessments that provide personalized feedback. Networking Academy instructors receive extensive training and support to help ensure a consistently enriching learning experience for students around the world.
Supporting Quotes
Hon. Michael J. Scott, JP, MP, Minister of Government Estates and Information Services
"The Cisco local academy initiative dovetails with the Government's overall commitment to develop the Island's human potential by means of enhanced training opportunities in various areas, in particular, training that will meet the emerging needs of the next few decades. IT stands at the forefront in this regard."
Evelyn James-Barnett, director of communications, Bermuda College
"Bermuda College welcomes the opportunities that this new partnership brings to both Bermuda and to the Bermuda College as its host venue. We have long recognized the need for this type of training to be available on the Island. While Bermuda College's associate degree programs deliver a quality academic track to the IT industry, Cisco Networking Academy equips students with networking skills by providing practical experience on a wide range of Cisco equipment, and through virtual learning, makes practical industry readiness immediately available."
Gustavo Sorgente, operations director, general manager Cisco Cansac
"Countries throughout the world have a great chance to benefit from the digital era. Cisco is committed to providing the infrastructure as well as the knowledge and tools required to assist countries such as Bermuda take full advantage of the innovations in today's global economy."
Cristina McGlew, regional manager, Corporate Affairs, Latin America and the Caribbean, Cisco
"The launch of the Cisco Networking Academy at Bermuda College marks a major milestone for the program. Through this valued partnership, together, we are supporting the next generation of ICT leaders by preparing students for 21st-century opportunities – building ICT, business, and critical-thinking skills."
Navid Ghandeharioun, senior territory business manager, Cisco
"Creating ICT talent in today's competitive global marketplace is a key concern of many governments and organizations alike. The Cisco Networking Academy in Bermuda could become a catalyst in development of an educated ICT workforce on the island and ultimately help propel Bermuda's economic standing to the next level of prominence globally."
About Cisco
Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide leader in networking that transforms how people connect, communicate and collaborate. Information about Cisco can be found at http://www.cisco.com. For ongoing news, visit http://newsroom.cisco.com.
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