Microsoft’s bid to address IT skills shortage

The DreamSpark initiative has been well received by Australian universities. The software is viewed as a practical resource that may enhance a student’s tertiary education.

James Dalziel, spokesperson, Macquarie University said: “The Australian Access Federation for Higher Education and Research welcomes Microsoft's DreamSpark initiative as one of the potential services starting in 2008 which would utilise the capability of the Federation to provide better access to software for Australian students and researchers.”

DreamSpark will begin appearing in Australian universities in the first half of 2008. Students will be required to log onto a website, select the software they want and verify their student status in order to download the desired application.

microsoft dreamspark skills shortage software