ETISALAT Academy, the largest single-source provider of training and development solutions in the Middle East, and Huawei, a leading global information and communications technology (ICT) solutions provider, have recently signed an MoU to introduce certified LTE programs in the Middle East region. The LTE Certification program consists of two stages: LTE-Associate and LTE-Professional. The 5 days LTE-Associate program offers insights into the main concepts and principles of LTE Radio, Transport, Core Networks and associated technologies. The 10 days LTE-Professional offers in-depth concepts related to LTE network planning and analysis used in the dimensioning, optimization diagnosis and fault locating. Both programs comprises of Training and a Certification Exam. The programs are based on the Huawei LTE platform and practical aspects include hands-on training on Huawei tools and equipment. The Global Mobile Suppliers Association (GSA) confirms that 174 firm commercial LTE network deployments are in progress or planned in 64 countries, including 28 networks that have been commercially launched. A further 63 operators in 21 additional countries are engaged in LTE technology trials, tests or studies. The Etisalat Group has announced the launch of the two most recent commercial networks in the UAE and Saudi Arabia and many other countries across Africa, the Middle East and Asia are planning to introduce 4G mobile broadband technology in 2012 and beyond. Etisalat Academy's training delivery ranges from classroom lectures, to e-learning modules and practical sessions. The e-learning platform with virtual tools for relevant modules of LTE is part of this program. Participants would be able to log on to the online lab of Huawei for the concerned modules. For practical sessions, Huawei will offer their DBS 3900 LTE RAN equipment consisting of the RRU and BBU, which is a great plus for the LTE Professional-OAM certification. Participants who complete the program successfully will be issued Certificates by Huawei. The training will be delivered in English language at Etisalat Academy. The signing ceremony was held at the Etisalat Academy in Dubai and was attended by senior members of Etisalat Academy and Huawei, including David Brennan, General Manager at the Etisalat Academy, and Alan Wang, Managing Director, Huawei Etisalat Key Account, Huawei - Middle East. The aim of the LTE program is to develop technical staff into highly skilled certified professionals. This program will provide the business with strategic and technical know-how of the challenges faced in product areas of LTE for Etisalat as well as other operators in the Middle East region. – SG
