Computer literacy is a skill in high demand by employers throughout Afghanistan, and USAID is supporting improved computer instruction in Afghanistan’s school system. On February 12, a group of 13 Professional Development Center (PDC) coordinators throughout Afghanistan received International Computer Driving License (ICDL) certificates. The ICDL is an internationally recognized certification indicating superior end-user computer skills.
The 13 recipients are now certified to administer the ICDL examination in Afghanistan. This is the first step in ensuring that more people have the opportunity to take the exam and become computer skills trainers, increasing the number of expert computer users in the country.
The ICDL provides a framework for building skills in the workforce, which will boost the fast-growing area of IT in institutions throughout the country. Khalil Frough, PDC coordinator at Parwan University said “ICDL helps me to enhance my own computer skills and teach others in a better way, in order to have a brighter Afghanistan.” ICDL certification is now available at 16 faculties of education, the Afghanistan Technical and Vocational Institute, and the American University of Afghanistan.