Microsoft backs government's half-price tech training scheme

Vendor training courses half price for channel through Tech Parternship Training Fund

Microsoft has encouraged resellers to take advantage of a government initiative which offers resellers 50 per cent off vendor training courses.

At the end of last year, the Tech Partnership – which is designed to promote digital skills – launched its Tech Partnership Training Fund, which provides cash for businesses to invest in IT training.

The fund offers employers 50 per cent off costs for IT training up to a maximum of £500 per staff member, subject to eligibility.

Short courses in areas such as cloud, big data, mobile, cybersecurity and e-commerce are available for resellers, Microsoft said, adding that its training partner QA offers Microsoft-specific training in its own technology such as Windows Server, Azure, System Center and SQL Server.

According to IDC, lack of training and relevant certification are the top reasons computing roles remain unfilled.

Microsoft's director for partner business and development Linda Rendleman urged resellers to take advantage of the scheme.

"In order to leverage the business opportunities presented by cloud and big data technologies, it is vital to invest in the skills and qualifications for your business," she said in a blog post today. "The government funding available via the Tech Partnership is an ideal opportunity to receive financial support with accredited training companies to develop the skills staff need in these key growth areas."