Cisco expands commitment to Myanmar

It said the establishment of the Networking Academy Program in the country is being supported through Cisco’s long-term partnership with the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

It said it is working with the Myanmar government and other private and public organizations in the country to build a “Smart and Connected Myanmar”.

Cisco is also providing training and development to grow the partner businesses in Myanmar. Cisco authorized channel partners are trained to help ensure that network equipment is regularly upgraded and software is up-to-date, protecting the integrity of the network. 

In collaboration with USAID, Cisco has established the first Networking Academies at the University of Computer Studies, Yangon (UCSY) and University of Computer Studies, Mandalay (UCSM).

This will provide students with critical information technology (IT) and networking skills to design, build, and maintain the infrastructure highway and increase the number of job-ready graduates for the country’s information and communications technology (ICT) sector. Cisco is donating networking equipment for labs and providing 21st century career skills training for up to 15 faculty staff from the two universities to support the program.

Dr Tatchapol Poshyanonda, managing director for Cisco in Thailand and Indochina, said Cisco strongly believes that education and the Internet will be a powerful combination to bring long-term growth and prosperity to Myanmar.

“A ‘Smart and Connected Myanmar’ will be a powerful catalyst for the region,” he said.

Sandy Walsh, regional director of Cisco’s Social Innovation Group in Asia Pacific, said: “The Cisco Networking Academy program will equip students in Myanmar with industry relevant skills that are globally recognized, providing them with ICT skills for the 21st century workforce, as they transform the country and their communities.”

Chris Milligan, USAID/Myanmar Mission Director, said technology is a powerful tool to advance Myanmar’s development while contributing to sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

“This collaboration with Cisco brings innovative technology and education to build on the strengths and capacity of the country. The initiative will provide ICT skills training and increase the number of job-ready graduates for the country’s emerging ICT sector,” he said.