Mumbai: Cisco Systems, today launched a country-wide channel initiative, 'Premier Express Programme' for its value-added resellers (VARs). The programme is designed to accelerate the upward migration of Cisco's VARs to the next level of Cisco 'premier certified partner' category through a combination of e-learning and discounted class room training to its partners.

The programme is a focused technology training covering sales, pre-sales and post sales modules, made available as a combination of on-line e-learning modules and trainer led classroom focused technology sessions with Cisco domain experts. This programme will enable partners to attain the 'premier partner' certification with specialisation in routing and switching. Cisco recognises this certification by including such partners on its web site.

Commenting on the initiative, Shirish Joshi, Vice President-Channels, Cisco Systems (India & SAARC) says, "With 100 percent of our revenues coming through our channel partners, it is imperative that we create programs that improve partner profitability and drive mutual success by equipping them with the right tools and training for their growth. We are confident that the Premier Express Programme will enable our resellers to expand their portfolio and move up the value chain in a time bound manner through a structured training program and certification capsules."

The programme will be executed in batches over the next six months. The training is conducted in a batch of 12 people thus ensuring individual attention by quality trained professional.