KFUPM announces a partnership with Cisco Systems, Inc., the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet, to launch a Regional Cisco Networking Academy. The Academy program prepares students for networking and IT-related careers in the public and private sectors, as well as for higher education in engineering, computer science and related fields.
“Jobs of the future will go where there is an educated workforce, an infrastructure and a supportive government,” said Cisco President and CEO John Chambers. “That’s why it’s so important that today’s students get the skills needed for the jobs of the 21st century.”
"The Cisco Networking Academy Program is a public, private partnership between Cisco, governments, educational institutions, non- governmental organizations and industry created to teach students how to design, build and maintain IT networks and infrastructure. The courses deliver web-based content, online assessment, student performance tracking, hands-on labs, instructor training and support, and preparation for industry standard certifications. The curriculum has been developed by Cisco Systems through its worldwide experience of IT needs and reflects ongoing enhancements to raise the bar for over 10,000 academies in 160 countries worldwide. To date more than 488,000 students have enrolled in academies operating in high schools, colleges and universities around the world." Said Hashem Shahwan, Area Academy Manager for Cisco Systems Saudi Arabia.
The Regional Academy will offer courses in CCNA for students to prepare for industry-recognized certification and IT careers. KFUPM plans to partner with local businesses seeking IT professionals who have hands-on skills with the latest technology to place graduates. In addition to networking and IT skills, the curricula also reinforces 21st century skills, IT literacy, problem-solving, communication and working with others from different backgrounds.
The web-based curricula was developed by educators for simultaneous delivery to all Academy sites through a Global Learning Network. Certified instructors provide face-to-face support in a specially equipped Academy lab to reinforce learning and ensure student progress. Internet-based assessment provides immediate feedback to students and teachers – providing mastery, as well as measurement.
Building knowledge and skills takes time—KFUPM and the Cisco Networking Academy Program are investing now to build an educated, competitive and trained IT workforce.
“It has often been said that education and the Internet are two of the world’s great equalizers,” added Chambers. “The Academy empowers individuals to transcend the digital divide, regardless of race, gender, geography, culture or socioeconomic status.”
Cisco Systems, Inc., (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet. More information on the Cisco Networking Academy program can be found at Cisco Networking Academy Web Site.