Microsoft, through its Certified Partner in Learning Solutions (CPLS) - New Horizons Computer Learning Centers of Jamaica, assumed the training of senior Government information technology professionals in March 2005 after the Government's successful negotiation of the Microsoft Enterprise Agreement, under which it acquired from Microsoft the right to use IT software across its 15 Ministries.

Under this Enterprise Agreement (EA), the Government of Jamaica (GOJ) will utilize Microsoft's desktop software across the public sector, and will take advantage of the value-added training being offered on the Microsoft Windows Server 2003 platform and its applications.

"Training of our Government's IT professionals ensures firstly, a return on the investment negotiated under the Microsoft Enterprise Agreement and secondly, it also ensures that skills are at world class standards to deploy and maximize the capability of the Microsoft platform."  Says Anna-Kay Lee, General Manager of New Horizons, Jamaica.

The pilot phase of training has included the participation of IT staff from two (2) ministries namely, the Ministry of Commerce, Science and Technology and the Ministry of Agriculture to which Phillip Ashman is employed.

"The intent of training at the Ministry level is to develop a cadre of expertise at the top which will in turn lends support to their respective agencies."  Says Michael DuQuesnay, Chief Executive Officer of the Central Information Technology Office, (CITO).  "Technical training for information technology managers and other professionals are being offered by Microsoft through re-investment funds for a total of US$300,000.00" he confirmed.  CITO is responsible for administering the three (3) year Enterprise Agreement, signed in June 2004.

Commenting on the Enterprise Agreement between the software giant and the Jamaican Government, Jaggernauth Dass, Public Sector Manager, Microsoft West Indies said, "Microsoft Corporation is committed to supporting the education initiatives started in the region.  Phillip Ashman's achievement is a fine example of how the Jamaican Government has developed and executed programmes to improve the knowledge and skills of its public sector workers.  "Microsoft," he reiterated "is committed to channeling resources to the GOJ, to ensure the continued execution of programmes that have produced Mr. Ashman's achievements."