About the UIEP
Government is determined to develop the ICT sector into the 5th pillar of the economy. However, for this to happen, there is a need for substantial investments in human capital and commitment from various stakeholders. It is reckoned that one of the main factors that impede the development of ICT as an industry is a mismatch in terms of labour demand and supply. An adequate pool of IT manpower who is at least computer proficient, computer professionals or IT specialists is essential for the take off of this sector.
In this context, Government is implementing the Prime Minister’s Universal ICT Education Programme (UIEP). This programme aims at imparting computer proficiency skills to students, workers, unemployed and the population at large. Through the UIEP, Government is aiming to train 400,000 trainees over a 4-year period to obtain the internationally recognised Internet and Computing Core Certification (IC3) certificate.
With a view to translating Government’s vision as announced by the Prime Minister in his message to the nation on Independence Day for “providing universal ICT education to every student, every employee and non-employee in four years”, Cabinet has agreed to the implementation of the action plan put in place following consultations with Dr Appu Kuttan, Founder, Chairman and CEO of the National Education Foundation for Cyberlearning and an internationally recognized Expert in ICT education.
The Plan provides for the training of a maximum number of persons on the Internet and Computing Core Certification (IC3). This programme would create a significant pool of ICT professionals which, in turn, would attract employers interested in using Mauritius as an ICT bridge between India and Africa and between India and French-speaking countries.
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Cabinet Decision 31 March 2006