ICT Certification Passes Major Milestone

ICT Certification Passes Major Milestone

PRESS RELEASE – NZ Computer Society Inc. (NZCS)
6 May 2009
For Immediate Release

The New Zealand Computer Society (NZCS) announced today that the model for independent accreditation of ICT Professionals in New Zealand has completed its formal approval process, and that ICT certification will proceed later this year.

Professional Certification differs from technical certification in that it is a “gold standard” or “overarching” independent accreditation, similar to the Chartered Accountant or Chartered Engineer certifications, and includes significant focus on professional skills such as communication and leadership skills, understanding of the broad legislative framework, and competence and accountability (in conjunction with technical skills).

“This is a significant announcement”, NZCS chief executive Paul Matthews said today. “This means that ICT professionals in New Zealand will have the same opportunity for independent recognition and hence be on the same footing as professionals in many other countries”.

Incorporating over a year of research and development and closely aligned with similar ICT professional certifications in other countries, the Certification model was formally and unanimously approved by the Society’s governing body, the National Council, last week. The Council is made up of senior ICT professionals from around New Zealand.

“The completion and approval of the model follows significant nationwide consultation and incorporates feedback from several hundred ICT Professionals and organisations through formal submissions and nationwide workshops”, Matthews said.

NZCS President Don Robertson, who declared Certification as the primary project for his term when taking the role last year, said “This is a defining time for ICT in New Zealand. It’s been a long time coming, however we’re proud to be finally delivering this major programme to the New Zealand ICT profession”.

“As well as independently accrediting and recognising ICT Professionals, the programme is expected to deliver a significant competitive advantage to organisations who believe in professional development, ethics, and upskilling their staff”, Robertson said.

Matthews said that pre-registrations for a streamlined initial process will begin mid-June, with the programme formally launching in August.

“We’ve had overwhelming support from the profession, industry, academia and Government”, Matthews said. “This is truly a sector-wide programme, and we’re very excited we’ve passed this milestone”.

“Independent ICT Professional Certification is now a definite for New Zealand. The Society has been promising this for a long time, and we’re proud we’re now delivering”, Matthews concluded.

ENDS

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