On 22 June 2010, the Portuguese Minister for Labour and Social Solidarity, Ms. Helena André received the 'Excellence Award' for the 10 years of implementation of the ECDL certification programme as a measure to enhance the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills of the public sector workforce in Portugal. 

The award, presented by Mr. Damien O'Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer (CEO)of the ECDL Foundation, is in recognition of 10 years' dedication to the certification of end-users in ICT. ECDL emphasises that the Portuguese Public Administration sector is now an internationally recognised example of best practice.

Portugal has invested considerably in building its ICT infrastructure, with broadband access coverage reaching now nearly 100 %. In addition to this, the Portuguese Government identified the need to substantially develop the public sector employees' digital skills and knowledge through the promotion of the ECDL certification; it thus raised the country's levels of digital literacy and equipped the nation with the right skills to succeed in challenging times.

In his speech, Mr. O'Sullivan said that "ECDL is a true European success story built on partnerships such as this", pointing out how the original concept of a European-wide certification was developed and supported by the European Commission. "In commemorating this 10th anniversary within the Ministry of Labour, ECDL Foundation recognises the success and commitment of the Ministry of Labour in developing the skills, productivity and efficiency of its employees."

This strong relationship between the Ministry and ECDL Portugal is seen as an example of best practice which could be replicated in other countries.

Further information:

• Original News Article - European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) Foundation
• Ministry of Labour and Social Solidarity (in Portuguese)
• ECDL Portugal