The DfEE is today launching a £25 million initiative aimed at providing unemployed jobseekers with IT skills.

UK online Computer Training will provide tasters and courses worth an average £400 each at around 400 venues across England. It will work by providing free vouchers and a free phone line to those interested in trying their hand at new technology. Learners are directed to their nearest training provider where they can have a free initial ‘taster’ session. After this, anyone eligible can sign up for a full computer training course.

DfEE research reveals that currently just one in five unemployed jobseekers can offer a prospective employer a computer skills qualification, and two fifths of the population describe their computer skills as ‘non-existent’.

Commenting on the project, Minister for Learning and Technology Michael Wills said that "this initiative will provide essential skills to those who haven’t before had the chance to see what new technology can do for them. It has been designed to be accessible, available and it is free - with friendly support for completely new learners."

For futher details and a list of training providers, read the full story at
www.dfee.gov.uk.