NMC pushes for computer courses for locals

Striving to equip local talents with expertise in computer programming and network technology, the Northern Marianas College Board of Regents yesterday carried a motion to implement a technology-oriented program for the benefit of current and potential career professionals.

Disappointed with the lack of computer literate among locals, BOR member Manny Sablan said NMC should seriously look into developing more computer-related courses at the college.

Member Vince Seman echoed Mr. Sablan’s views, citing it is about time that the CNMI aim to be at par with other nations in acquiring globally competitive jobs particularly in the field of computers.

The BOR Program Committee has proposed to implement the Certificate Programs in Computer Programming and Network Technology which was unanimously backed by BOR members at yesterday’s board meeting.

But Program Committee Chair Abelina Cing-Camacho said the program may seem “unattractive” to locals due to its high cost, barely affordable for average salary-earners in the CNMI.

Mr. Seman said the program may not survive in the Northern Marianas due to this obstacle.

Nevertheless, BOR officials still opted to proceed with the program, with high hopes of nurturing local minds with knowledge on computers and technology.

“The area of computer literacy here should be improved. It is difficult to find locals with elevated computer know-how and this hinders them from securing in-demand jobs,” said Mr. Sablan.

After surveying online sites on the demand of computer experts all over the world, Mr. Sablan found that a Computer Scientist earned an average of $80,000 annually.

“We should task the college to address this department. Maybe we should also engage the Chamber of Commerce and work together in providing training,” Mr. Sablan added.

With well-founded expertise, graduates of the local program may then be eligible for off-island jobs in the mentioned fields.

“Every year, our foreign workers remit significant amount of dollars to their respective countries. And if they can do it, I don’t see why we can’t send our own people to work off-island and infuse the same amount into our local coffers.

“We should train our people. Local talent is local talent, no matter where they’re working,” said Mr. Seman.

The Certificate Programs in Computer Programming and Network Technology was initially conceptualized based on findings of the Financial Management Improvement Program.

The program recommended that the Department of Finance see the assistance of NMC’s Continuing Education Office to establish a training program to provide potential DOF employees and current DOF staff the opportunity to enhance their skills and abilities in the areas computer programming, network technology, and public sector accounting.

Target populations for the program are local residents who aspire to gain skills in the said computer fields with the expectation that they will either find employment in the public or private sector. (MM)