Yapster e-Learning links up with Netopia

Yapster e-Learning Inc. recently forged an alliance with Netopia Computer Technologies Inc. to promote information and communications technology (ICT) literacy among the Filipino public by providing basic computer training through Netopia’s chain of cybercafés.

The partnership was borne out of an initiative to help develop "knowledge workers," a key ICT concern.

Yapster e-Learning is the premier provider of Web-based training with a curriculum of over 1,000 IT and business courses available at 2StudyIT.com.

International Computer Driving License (ICDL), including training in Netscape, and Introduction to eCommerce will be made available initially to Netopia clients in their Cavite, España, Farmer’s Plaza, Las Piñas, North Edsa, Pasig and University Mall branches.

ICDL, one of 2StudyIT.com’s best-selling courses, is a basic course on computer usage covering word processing, spreadsheet, presentations, computer basics and the World Wide Web.

The ICDL was developed and accredited by the European Computer Society to ensure equal knowledge in basic computer competence within countries in Europe and Canada as well.

Netopia was set up in 1997 with the aim of becoming the leading shared access retailer in the country. It provides access for those who do not want to maintain or cannot afford their own PCs, or those who need upgraded or specialized access.

Netopia, now partly owned by the PLDT group, recently embarked on a three-year expansion plan to bring total branch network from the current 24 to 259 by the end of 2004.

"We help bridge the digital divide by providing affordable access to more Filipinos," Raymond Ricafort, president of Netopia, said. "And by entering into an alliance with Yapster e-Learning, we provide affordable ‘e-ducation’ to those who do not have the luxury of going abroad to study internationally accredited courses."

Yapster e-Learning launched its products and services last September. Its innovative course design and delivery system assure anytime, anywhere training at less cost.

In keeping with its Bureau of Investment pioneer status, Yapster e-Learning is the first in making Web-based training courses even more accessible to the majority through Netopia, the country’s widest and fastest growing cybercafé network.

"Since its inception, 2StudyIT has always focused on bringing quality learning to as many Filipinos as possible. By providing inexpensive access to world-class learning resources, we’re able to help make the Filipino globally competitive," Arlene Yap, Yapster e-Learning’s CEO, said.