Friday, 9 May 2008

Microsoft Expands Commitment Across Asia Pacific Region

Microsoft Corp. Chairman, Bill Gates announced several new programs, partnerships, and offerings that strengthen Microsoft's commitment and investment in delivering accessible technology and transforming education for citizens across the Asia Pacific region and around the world.

The announcements include new education tools for people with special needs, the extension of an important skills development and certification program available through Internet cafes (iCafes) in the Philippines, the further progress of Microsoft's flagship K–12 education program Partners in Learning, which has now achieved a milestone number of 100 million students reached worldwide, and the expansion of Microsoft Innovation Centers in Indonesia with Pelita Harapan University.

"At the heart of our efforts is the belief that technology can provide capabilities that are key to creating new jobs and generating sustainable economic growth, including access to a quality education and the knowledge and infrastructure to foster local innovation," said Gates.

He adds that Microsoft want to do everything that can equip people with PCs, the Internet, productivity software, e-mail and other tools of the digital information revolution so that people can be full participants in the global knowledge economy.

Furthermore, Microsoft believes that information technology can have a significant impact on people's lives and is committed to working with public and private sector organizations to seek solutions to expand access to technology.