The shift among local organizations toward open source software (OSS) is driving more IT professionals to undergo additional training to equip themselves with the right skills.

The Linux Foundation today announced the Linux Foundation Training Program, which will kick off with courses taught at the Linux Foundation’s Annual Collaboration Summit April 8 - 10, 2009 in San Francisco.

One of Ubuntu's strategies for gaining a larger user base is providing quality, comprehensive training for everyone who desires. For that purpose, Canonical has recently included Fast Lane and Bridge Education in its Ubuntu Training Partner Programme, signing and training instructors. The courses are held all across the United States of America.

The Linux Foundation put a release this AM announcing a new Linux Training Program. My first reaction was 'Is the Linux Foundation now going to compete against the Linux Professional Institute (LPI) and their Linux certifications?

The Ubuntu Desktop Training program, aimed at new users, is now available. The training provides simulations, practical exercises and information to make daily tasks easy. While prior experience with Linux is not required, basic computer skills are a pre-requisite.

The virtual classroom is the future for Linux Training. As Linux grows and and more companies need Linux Server Training the virtual classroom will gain more acceptance based on the advantages that a company can create using virtual training.

Linux opportunities in the South African market are increasing but skills are still a significant stumbling block. This is according to Michelle Beetar, country manager for Novell South Africa.

But some in the Linux community say the emergence of certifications is by no means a golden ticket for admins, and perhaps just a waste of time and money.

"The following lists of “hot” IT skills – very much in demand by employers – is based on Foote Partners' survey of nearly 2,000 U.S. and Canadian employers." Linux is number 2!