Following success of IT training programs for disabled people in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, USAID and Catholic Relief Services are extending their assisstance by granting scholarships to underprivileged people in the central city of Da Nang.

The IT training program, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by Catholic Relief Services (CRS), will provide 250 scholarships to students with disabilities to study informatics technology at Dong A University from now through 2014.

The first class of 28 disabled students at Dong A have begun studying graphics design and website development.

"We are pleased to continue our support for this program, which encourages students with disabilities to reach their fullest potential and contribute completely to Vietnam's social and economic development," said USAID director Joakim Parker.

Since 2007, USAID and CRS have granted scholarships to over 700 disabled students at the Hanoi College of Information Technology and Van Lang University in Ho Chi Minh City to study advanced computer skills, such as graphics design, 3D modeling and web development.

Not only do they learn IT skills, but students also receive support for room and board and job placement services. Over 80 percent of graduates have since found jobs.