Since Cisco and the UNDP joined hands in 2001, it has been their objective to try to reach out to the less fortunate communities to deliver computer courses that Cisco offers. These are basic courses such as 'IT Essentials,' which teaches students how to set up a computer, install the connections, among others.

Sulit said Cisco and UNV, with the help of the USAID (US Agency for International Development), provide IT education in the conflict-affected areas in Mindanao such as the ARMM (Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao) and others.

One of the groups' latest accomplishments in Mindanao was the graduation last November 2005 of eight school instructors from the ARMM and other conflict-affected areas in Mindanao. They successfully completed the CNAP's 'IT Essentials' course. The graduate instructors will soon train other teachers who will bring the IT curriculum to the students.

Aside from establishing partnerships, 'gender initiative' is also one of the main plans of Cisco and the UNV. 'This is to give women equal access to IT education and opportunity,' Sulit said.

In implementing the programs, Sulit said the organizations worked as a team, with the USAID providing computers and Internet connection; Cisco in providing the curriculum content; its partner De La Salle University in giving instructor training; while the UNV provides the manpower to coordinate all the relationships possible.