(MENAFN - Muscat Daily) The role of technology in empowering and developing societies was highlighted at the second Microsoft NGO Connection Day held on Sunday. The event was organised by Microsoft Oman and Oman Information Technology Society (OITS) in association with Tawasul.The event began with keynote speeches by Microsoft, OITS and Tawasul representatives, who explained how NGOs (non-government organisatons) in Oman can benefit from technology in making a difference in their community.The one-day workshop also featured a panel discussion on youth employability and entrepreneurship in which members of the National Committee for Youth participated.Several training sessions were conducted by Microsoft and its technical partners - Exceed IT Training and Services, and LinkDev “ to introduce the new Windows 8 and discuss information and communication-related topics. Three technologies - Windows 8, Dynamic CRM, a management tool, and LYNC, a communication tool - were introduced and their features explained to the audience.''I am happy to see the level of participation. I think this is a way of establishing a good connection. Microsoft is very serious about its CSR (corporate social responsibility). We give a lot of free content and free training to several categories of people,'' said Tareq Hijazi, country manager for Microsoft Bahrain and Oman.''I think technology is a great way of reducing costs and also serves the purpose of networking, which is an added benefit for NGOs.''Khalid al Safi al Haribi, co-founder of Tawasul, said institutions should be run for the benefit of people. ''Today's event signals a transformation in civil society. Giant companies like Microsoft are taking on social responsibilities. I believe an institution should focus on the public good, and this is a perfect instance where companies can contribute to society.'' Representatives from almost 45 NGOs attended the event.
