*- “Certificate of Achievement” introduces new users and youth to Linux and Open Source Software - * (Doha, Qatar and Hanover, Germany: March 6, 2012) The Linux Professional Institute (LPI), the world's premier Linux certification organization ( http://www.lpi.org), announced “Linux Essentials” an innovative new program measuring foundation knowledge in Linux and Open Source Software. Targeted at new technology users, the “Linux Essentials” program is set to be adopted by schools, educational authorities, training centers and others commencing June 2012. "Linux is ubiquitous and plays a significant role in the server room, on our phones and tablets, cash registers and, of course, embedded devices everywhere. Linux is in the enterprise, in movie studios, government, academia and throughout industry around the world. We at LPI, with the help of our partner channel, are going to take it to the last frontier--the classroom. LPI is at the forefront of creating the first generation of Linux professionals, and now with our "Linux Essentials" program we're going to create the first global generation of "users" who are as comfortable with Linux as they are with any other operating system," said Jim Lacey, president and CEO of LPI. Mr. Lacey however was quick to add that this new initiative isn't just for students: "Linux Essentials isn't just for youth, it’s for anyone that desires a gateway to Open Source Software. We've had business people, policy makers and government officials approach us and ask for an exam that demonstrates their knowledge of the Open Source ecosystem. Come June, we're going to start doing just that for everyone." The “Linux Essentials” program has been under development by LPI for approximately two years and includes the participation of qualification authorities, academic partners, private trainers, publishers, government organizations, volunteer IT professionals and Linux and Open Source experts. The single "Linux Essentials" exam leads to a "Certificate of Achievement" recognizing knowledge of the following subject matter: - The Linux Community and a Career in Open Source - Popular Operating Systems and Major Open Source Applications - Understanding Open Source Software and Licensing - Linux Command Line Basics, Files and Scripts - Program elements also include: · regional links to employment and apprenticeship programs available to youth in Linux and Open Source careers · support for skills competitions such as Worldskills International: http://www.worldskills.org/ · support for teacher collaboration and sharing of learning exercises for the “Linux Essentials” knowledge base · commitments from major IT courseware and content publishers on exam preparatory resources - a “low-stakes” exam available online either through LPI or partner internet-based testing - a PDF “certificate of achievement” valid for 10 years - will cost the equivalent of 50 euros at test centers of academic partners and 65 euros at private test centers The “Linux Essentials” exam will be available in June 2012 in Europe, the Middle East and Africa and in other nations around the world in 2013. A full description of “Linux Essentials” is available at: http://www.lpi.org/linuxessentials Individuals and organizations interested in participating in the “Linux Essentials” program may email LPI at: innovation@lpi.org<innovations@lpi.org> Mr. Lacey made the announcement via video link to a press conference hosted by LPI representatives at CeBIT 2012 in Hanover, Germany. Mr. Lacey participated in the announcement following his appearance on an expert panel discussion on education, digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and the creation of an Arab ICT industry while attending the International Telecommunications Union “Connect Arab Summit” in Doha, Qatar ( http://www.itu.int/ITU-D/connect/arabstates/index.asp) The Linux Professional Institute is globally supported by the IT industry, enterprise customers, community professionals, government entities and the educational community. LPI's certification program is supported by an affiliate network spanning five continents and is distributed worldwide in multiple languages at more than 7,000 testing locations. Since 1999, LPI has delivered over 300,000 exams and 100,000 LPIC certifications around the world. # # # *About the Linux Professional Institute:* The Linux Professional Institute provides a global framework, industry leadership and other services to enhance, develop and further lifelong professional careers in Linux and Open Source technologies. Established as an international non-profit organization in September 1999 by the Linux community, the Linux Professional Institute continues to demonstrate recognized global leadership, direction and skill standards for those who pursue a career in Linux and Open Source technology. LPI advances the Linux and Open Source movement through strategic partners, sponsorships, innovative programs and community development activities. LPI's major financial sponsors are Platinum Sponsors IBM, Linux Journal, Linux Magazine, Novell, SGI, and TurboLinux as well as Gold Sponsors, HP and IDG.