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The CIIRSA Computer School, established in 2019, is an educational program offered by the Canadian International Immigrant & Refugee Support Association (CIIRSA) to help newcomers to Canada develop essential digital skills for personal, educational, and professional success. The school provides multiple levels of instruction:

• Computer Class Level I focuses on basic computer literacy, including how to use a computer, navigate operating systems, use email, and work with essential software like Microsoft Word and Excel.

• Computer Class Level II builds on foundational knowledge and introduces more advanced topics such as file management, internet safety, online communication tools, and productivity software.

The program emphasizes hands-on learning and practical applications, empowering students to confidently engage with technology in their daily lives. CIIRSA is proud of the significant progress and achievements of its students, many of whom begin with little to no prior experience. The computer school plays a key role in supporting the integration, independence, and success of immigrants and refugees in Canada.

All CIIRSA instructors are highly qualified professionals, holding university degrees, certified in first aid, and thoroughly vetted through comprehensive background and vulnerable sector checks.

Executive Director Wilson Daved facilitates the Program.

Please call 780-429-4553 or email ciirsaedmonton@ciirsa.ca to enroll as a student or for any general correspondence.

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CIIRSA Edmonton Computer Class Faculty 2024

From Left to Right: CIIRSA Technologist Michael Elliott, Program Coordinator Ghirmay Tesfamicael, CIIRSA Executive Director Wilson Daved, Michael Habteyonas – Computer Curriculum Developer, Azal Youhana – Computer Instructor

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Mr. Ghirmay Tesfamicael – Coordinator of CIIRSA Computer School

Ghirmay Tesfamicael holds a diploma in Auto Mechanics from Asmara Technical School and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Asmara in. He have worked as a secondary school teacher and chemist in Eritrea, and later as a secondary school teacher in Sudan. After immigrating to Canada, he worked with Schlumberger as an assembler for seven years and seven months.

His involvement with CIIRSA began in 2015 as a volunteer board member. From 2016 to January 31, 2022, he served as the Secretary of the Board. He also coordinated CIIRSA’s computer classes since January 2023, helping members of the community build essential digital skills.

On February 1, 2022, he officially joined CIIRSA as a staff member, where I continue to serve with dedication and a strong commitment to community development.

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Mr. Azal Youhana – Instructor of CIIRSA Computer Class

Azal Youhana is holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer
Technology Engineering and a Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)
certification. He works as an IT Technician and Computer Trainer at CIIRSA, where he delivers digital literacy training and teaches Microsoft Office tools to enhance participants’ technical skills. He also worked in Iraq in similar roles, focusing on foundational IT skills and online communication.

In addition, he has served as a Project Coordinator and Entrepreneurship Trainer at the Iraqi Al-Amal Association. In this role, he led virtual training sessions using Zoom and Microsoft Teams, conducted community mapping and data collection using KoBoToolbox, and delivered training to develop youth leadership, digital literacy, and career readiness skills.

His technical skills include troubleshooting hardware and software issues, installing operating systems, configuring LAN networks, and using tools like Visual Studio, MATLAB, AutoCAD, and programming languages such as C++, Visual Basic, and VHDL. He is fluent in English, Arabic, and Neo-Aramaic and enjoy helping others build their IT capabilities.

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