DOHA • Citibank Qatar and the Qatar Orphan Foundation (Dhreima) yesterday announced the launch of the ‘ICDL Certificate in Computing for Qatari Orphans', a training programme offering students lifelong vocational and entrepreneurship training in the IT sector to meet current and future employment requirements.

Supported by a $30,000 grant from the Citi Foundation, the programme will provide computer training to 40 boys and girls from Dhreimah under the globally-recognised International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL) certification programme. It covers IT skills, personal development skills and independent living skills resulting in an international certification. The skills are designed to help trainees overcome day-to-day obstacles and help them secure permanent jobs.

ICDL programmes are in use in more than 148 countries and are available in 38 languages, including Arabic, and are recognised by leading international computer associations.

Farhan Mahmood, Citibank Qatar CEO, said: "Citibank Qatar and the Citi Foundation are proud to be associated with this programme. We hope this grant will provide life-long skills to deserving youngsters and enhance their future career prospects."

Khalid Kamal, Dhreima Director-General, said: "The gesture is aimed at paving the way for orphans to land secure careers in the IT industry and is in line with our aim to build strong partnerships with the private sector and to address the sector's recruitment needs."