Network technician program for OSYs

Meralco Foundation Institute (MEI), in cooperation with the Philippine Out-Of-School Children and Youth Development Project and other organizations, has launched a program for out-of-school youths (OSY), especially those who have not graduated in high school but are determined to continue their studies and become "network technicians."

A network technician is one who supervises the proper operation of a computer network.

Those who will be chosen to participate in the program will undergo a month-long "preparatory course" prior to the two-year regular network technician course. Basic computer, Math, English and values education will be taken up during the preparatory course.

The regular network technician course will be under the Cisco Networking Academy Program (CNAP) where the actual use and operation of a computer network will be taught.

Besides the network technician diploma that the students will receive after completing the course, they will also receive the Cisco Certificate if they pass the Cisco certification exams.

Candidates must be not more than 22 years old; have reached second year high school or more, but are not high school graduates; have not been attending school for not more than two years; single, talented and in good health; come from a family with a monthly income of not more than P12,000; and must be determined to finish the course to support their families.

The program is a joint project of the Philippine Out-Of-School Children and Youth Development Project, Meralco Foundation Inc., Mary Help of Christians School (Pampanga), Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (Cebu), Cisco Systems, Children and Youth Foundation of the Philippines and Ayala Foundation Inc.

Lucky applicants will receive free tuition and a semestral allowance for uniforms, transportation and other school expenses.

The program is open to Metro Manila residents only. Acceptance of applicants is held every Saturday until September. Examinations will be handled by Don Bosco. Formal classes start in November at the MFI on Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City.

For more inquiries, come to the MFI or call tel. nos. 632-0756 to 67; ask for Vangie or Opel.