DANANG, December 3, 2012 -- On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Dong A University in Danang launched a U.S.-supported IT training program for people with disabilities following similar successful initiatives in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

The IT Training Program (ITTP), funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by Catholic Relief Services (CRS), will provide scholarships to more than 250 students with disabilities to study IT skills at Dong A University through 2014.

"I am proud that Dong A University is a truly inclusive community, with its doors open to everyone," said Dr. Nguyen Thi Anh Dao, Chair of the Board of Management. "I would love to see students with disabilities and non-disabled students form a brotherhood in their journey to success."

The first class of 28 students at Dong A University have begun studying graphics design and website development, and the university is recruiting students for additional classes. Dong A University will also establish a scholarship fund for students with disabilities and raise funds from other sources to ensure people with disabilities will continue to have this training opportunity after the project ends.

"We are pleased to continue our support for this program, which encourages students with disabilities to reach their fullest potential and contribute completely to Vietnam's social and economic development," said USAID Mission Director Joakim Parker.

Since 2007, USAID and CRS have collaborated with the Hanoi College of Information Technology (ESTIH) and Van Lang University in Ho Chi Minh City to provide training in advanced computer skills, such as graphics design, 3D modeling and web development, for young people with disabilities from all over Vietnam. While studying IT skills, students also receive support for room and board, trainings in soft skills and job placement services.

Following the success of ITTP in Hanoi and HCMC, USAID and CRS agreed to expand this program to Danang to bring vocational training opportunities in advanced IT to central Vietnam. Dong A University was selected to train and build the capacity of its teaching staff and leaders.

The program has trained more than 700 students with disabilities in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and over 80 percent of graduates have since found jobs. Training curricula are designed with extensive inputs from employers. Employers also team up with the training program to offer internships to help students gain additional hands-on experience.