AS a direct response to call for affordable and genuine software applications within the African market, Microsoft, the world's largest software manufacturer, has introduced its Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007 with free training DVD.

Speaking on Monday in Lagos, Enterprise Partner Group Manager, Mr. Adefolu Majekodunmi said; "Microsoft understands the underlying issues of affordability and availability of software in Africa and continues to support programmes that increase access for the underserved."

Microsoft Office Home & Student 2007 for Africa, he said, is just one of the ways in which Microsoft responds to the needs of its environment.

"The fact that the package is fully installable on up to three computers ensures that everyone who needs the essential software applications for work, study and play has access," he said.

He said the package which would be available as a special offer only in Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya from December 15, 2009 for N6,500 in Nigeria, includes Microsoft Office Word, Microsoft Office Excel, Microsoft Office PowerPoint and OneNote, and a free training DVD which covers Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote as well as the complete Microsoft Digital Literacy curriculum.

Also speaking on the offer, Microsoft Intellectual Property Right manager for Nigeria, Mr. Serge Ntamack said; "Microsoft Office Home & Student 2007 for Africa is a response to the feedback that we got from the market - that Nigerians sincerely desire genuine software at a comfortable pricing level. Now everyone who desires genuine software can afford to derive the benefits of genuine with the new Microsoft Office Home & Student for Africa."

"With the free training DVD, a first-time PC user or an experienced user can get the training they need to derive the full benefits of Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote without having to pay huge sums to an expert to come in and teach them."

Majekodunmi also explained that Microsoft's full Digital Literacy curriculum which offers from basic to more advanced training on basic computing and use of the internet also includes tips on possible careers in IT.

"The Digital Literacy Curriculum is targeted at people who have little or no exposure to computer or internet use. It enables users to train themselves at thier own pace and in their own time," he said.

He also said in a few weeks time, Microsofts Office would be launched in Igbo, Yoruba and Hause languages.