Learners were presented with certificates recently after successfully completing training at the new-look Castle Douglas IT Centre.

The centre, which delivers training in IT and offers online learning opportunities in a range of courses, had its training area re-designed at the beginning of 2005, incorporating eight PC workstations with flat screen monitors, broadband access and Microsoft’s XP Professional software. 

Pauline Bell, development officer, said: “The whole new look with up to date equipment means we can offer new learning opportunities which can help local people and businesses to increase their skills.”

Janette Park from Kirkpatrick Durham studied online to improve her typing skills. She said: “It was excellent and easy to follow. I really did improve my typing.”

 Winnie Wood from Crossmichael and Nayana Ramanayakage, who is staying in the area until she returns to Sri Lanka, were also delighted with their certificates in Equalskills. 

Nayana has already started another course at the centre and said: “I hope to use my certificates to help me find employment when I return to my home country.”