Abu Dhabi Systems and Information Centre signs master business and services agreement and MoU with Microsoft Gulf

This MBSA allows Abu Dhabi Local Government Entities the benefits of Microsoft government pricing for their license requirements.

Being the ICT arm of the Abu Dhabi Government, (ADSIC) has taken a key role in setting the frame work under which these affiliates can enroll into the Microsoft Enterprise Agreement to benefit from government pricing, software support, office productivity products home use rights, employee purchase program and training.

The MBSA agreement together with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Microsoft Gulf were signed by H.E. Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, Director General, ADSIC and Charbel Fakhoury, Regional General Manager, Microsoft Gulf and witnessed by Linda Zecher, Global Vice President, for Microsoft's Public Sector business.

The signing of the agreement is driven by the need for technology education and the development of e-literacy levels amongst the population in Abu Dhabi as the program recognizes the educational value of technology in schools and is designed to foster digital inclusion.

Speaking at the event, H.E. Al Mansoori said, "E-Literacy is a key enabler to help Abu Dhabi transformation efforts into a successful knowledge-based society, as such, putting technology to work for people throughout the country will enable us to strengthen our economy and create greater opportunities for young people to fulfil their potentials. We value Microsoft's support as we take positive steps towards utilizing technology towards social and human capital development."

The MoU is in line with ADSIC's effort to improve e-literacy standards of the population at large and Microsoft's "Unlimited Potential" initiative where Microsoft will impart technology training to 2000 people in Abu Dhabi in the first phase to raise the levels of ICT literacy. In addition, ADSIC and Microsoft will focus on two key initiatives:

1- Enhance students e-skills for employability and entrepreneurship by utilizing Microsoft's training programs and skills development, innovation and business acceleration.

2- Organize an annual competition for students titled "Imagine Us" that enables innovative learning and the development of technology skills of students.

Commenting on the partnership, Linda Zecher, Global Vice President, for Microsoft's Public Sector Business, said, "As the Middle East continues to emerge as a dynamic region, we are committed to working closely with organisations such as ADSIC to provide the foundation for innovation, job creation and sustainable economic growth. We are delighted to partner with ADSIC to develop a program that will allow young men and women in the region to gain insight into the rich, diverse and evolving business and technology environment while gaining the skills they need to compete in today's knowledge economy. Microsoft remains committed to helping countries in the region harness the power of technology for economic and social prosperity."

Charbel Fakhoury, Regional General Manager of Microsoft Gulf, added, "Microsoft is honoured to partner with ADSIC as we remain committed to socio-economic development and accelerating the evolution of a knowledge-based society. We commend ADSIC's ambitious vision of using technology to advance the cause of education and enhance IT skills development that will enable citizens to compete in today's global economy. Together with ADSIC, we hope to make a positive impact in the Abu Dhabi Emirate by using ICT as a tool to empower people."