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SmartForce addresses e-learning needs of disabled

Johannesburg, 16 Apr 2002

SmartForce, one of the world`s leading e-learning companies with a comprehensive application infrastructure to support e-learning initiatives in enterprises on a global basis, recently announced the availability of a range of courses specifically designed for the disabled.

The US-based company has launched approximately 1 500 learning paths or 5 000 hours of e-learning content specifically provided for persons with disabilities. This is available to users in SA from the local SmartForce subsidiary and on the Web.

"The IT industry has been ignoring the plight of the disabled in its bid to target high revenue streams emanating from the corporate sector," says Paul Johnson, general manager of SmartForce Africa. "We are working to address this issue with `assistive` technologies, such as screen readers, to help physically disabled users learn in a more appropriate environment."

SmartForce recently formed a partnership with the leading accessibility consulting firm, Optavia Corporation, to offer these solutions as part of SmartForce`s overall e-learning offerings.

Optavia is currently working with SmartForce to develop solutions that comply with evolving functional and technical standards in the US. The companies will also strive to develop new e-learning development approaches and provide expert accessibility consulting and design services to the disabled.

"As a company that prides itself on delivering engaging e-learning experiences that meet the needs of each individual, SmartForce believes that it is important to remove barriers to access and enable all people to enjoy the advantages of e-learning," adds Johnson.

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Sarah Dowding
Howard Mellet & Associates
(011) 463 4611
Sarah@hmcom.co.za