ESF 2.12: Second Step

This project involved the provision of a Diploma in Information Technology, Information Systems, or in Computing and Information Systems for specific target groups, including school leavers, women who want to return to the workplace, individuals who work in the manufacturing industry, unemployed, semi-skilled employees, and individuals risking long-term unemployment. As part of this project, an education and awareness campaign was also co-ordinated to promote ICT education and careers.

‘Second Step’ will target those who are risking long term unemployment, school leavers, women who want to return to the workplace, individuals who work in the manufacturing industry, unemployed, and semi-skilled employees, who possess the necessary prerequisites, and offer them the opportunity to follow a Diploma in IT, Information Systems or in Computing and Information Systems free of charge.

The results of the Second Step by the end of the project period will include: 1. The delivery of three different Diploma courses including a Diploma in Information Technology; a Diploma in Information Systems, and Computing and Information Systems to at least 200 persons (each person will need to choose one Diploma); 2. The certification of those persons who will attend the Diploma courses and complete it successfully; 3. The increase in the adaptability and flexibility of those persons who complete successfully the course, enabling them to be active and mobile in the ICT labour market for a better quality of life.

The direct benefit of the project for the target groups is the provision of IT skills that are needed by industry, which will further secure their chances to find a good job in the ICT industry or ICT-using industries. Furthermore, the training proposed is expensive for anyone who earns a low income, and therefore this will be a tremendous opportunity for who wants to get the right ICT skills but cannot afford to do so.