Micro Focus launches e-learning capability

-New learning resources designed to pass on key IT skills to next generation of programmers -

NEWBURY, England, March 27, 2008 — Micro Focus® (LSE.MCRO.L), the leading provider of enterprise application management and modernization solutions, today announces the launch of a new set of e-learning courses, teaching core IT skills to existing and future programmers across the globe. The courses on offer include training in COBOL for Business Success, as well as Micro Focus’ Mainframe Express application delivery environment.

These e-learning tools, developed internally by Micro Focus, are aimed at customers, partners and individuals involved in the programming of core IT systems.  As they are web-hosted, they can also be accessed instantaneously from anywhere in the world.

Peter Gadd, WW VP of Technical Services at Micro Focus, commented that: “The aim of these tools is to allow our partners and customers to train greater numbers of people in core IT skills in a shorter time period and at less expense. However, as these tools are available to all, there’s no reason why they shouldn’t be used by burgeoning programmers the world over, particularly in developing markets such as India and China, in which COBOL skills are increasingly in demand.”

The current skills shortage within the IT industry makes the need for this knowledge all the more pressing.  Whilst vast amounts of information belonging to some of the world’s largest companies lie within core IT systems, the number of professionals equipped to understand and develop such applications continues to decline as the baby boomer population who possess this expertise edge ever closer to retirement.

Gadd continued: “Whilst these courses are not designed to be a replacement for hands-on training courses, they can for example serve a valuable role in teaching an understanding of crucial COBOL programming basics – a skill which is becoming increasingly sought-after and essential in today’s global organisations. Tools such as these also reflect Micro Focus’ ongoing commitment to ensuring that sufficient numbers are equipped with the core IT skills required by business.”

Micro Focus’ set of e-learning training courses are now available at: http://www.microfocus.com/services/Training/proddescrip.asp

About Micro Focus

Micro Focus, a member of the FTSE 250, provides innovative software that allows companies to dramatically improve the business value of their enterprise applications. Micro Focus Enterprise Application Modernization and Management software enables customers’ business applications to respond rapidly to market changes and embrace modern architectures with reduced cost and risk. For additional information please visit www.microfocus.com

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