Informatics to open more schools

JAKARTA (JP): Computer school chain PT Informatics RT Indonesia (PTIRTI) is set to expand to cater to the local market's growing demand for information technology skills and knowledge.

Company general manager Joey Chansuyco said yesterday the company planned to open three new computer training and education centers each year in the country's major cities, including Jakarta, Surabaya, Medan and Ujungpandang, in its bid to become a leading computer chain school in the country.

The company currently operates three computer training and education centers in Jakarta, at Kramat, Pejompongan and Kelapa Gading.

PTIRTI is a joint venture between Informatics Holding Ltd of Singapore and PT Rig Tenders Indonesia.

Informatics Holding operates 143 computer training and education centers in 23 countries in Asia and Africa under a franchise system.

PTIRTI signed yesterday a franchise agreement with PT Permata Indah to operate another computer training and education center at Tanah Kusir, South Jakarta.

Permata Indah is active in general trade and has gas station, drugstore and clinic chains across the country.

According to the agreement, Permata Indah will construct a four-story Informatics Computer School in the area, which is scheduled for completion early next year.

Franchisee Permata Indah had to pay a S$300,000 franchise fee plus a 10 percent monthly revenue to PTIRTI in exchange for technology systems provided by the company, said Joey.

"Permata Indah should invest another S$300,000 to buy computers, furniture and cover preoperating costs," Joey said.

PTIRTI franchise marketing manager Paul Caparas said Informatics Computer School provided short-term and long-term computer courses for individuals and corporations.

He said Informatics Schools were affiliated with several top universities in Britain, Australia and the United States, which enable its students to pursue degrees in information technology. (jsk)