The idea behind these initiatives is however one. That is, helping those who want to make a career in the IT industry. And STG has something to offer to various categories. For graduates, there's a choice between the post-graduate diploma in client server technology and advanced diploma in web technology. For professionals, there are certified courses such as Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer, Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer, Sun Microsystems Certified Java and Oracle certified courses. And for undergraduates, there's a three-year Excel Plus programme which runs along with the graduation curriculum. The programmes comein the price range of Rs 29,500 to Rs 53,700.

When STG was set up a few years ago, the focus was clearly on programmes for mid-career professionals. Gradually diversification happened, but mid-career courses are what STG came to be known for. Says Narendra Saxena, CEO, STG: ``We chose this niche area five years ago because at that time there was a strong need for an institution to help software professionals move to current technology.'' And in 1994, when STG was set up in India, there was no organisation offering programmes for professionals. Hence, the relevance of STG.

But now that there are lot many players catering to IT professionals, what is STG's strategy? Replies Saxena: ``It's our training and delivery standard, workstation for every student, good faculty and courseware that keep us in good stead.'' He adds: ``When we announce a course upgrade, it's a real upgrade, and not a hype.''

On STG's expansion plans, Saxena says the number of centres in India will double from its present 100 plusnumber, by March 2000. The organisation plans to move to smaller towns as well. Also, it hopes to open new centres abroad--Abu Dhabi, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, etc.

But right now, STG is trying to make the best of the Web opportunity. Geared towards both web design and administration, the Web programme is being offered for plain graduates as well as professionals. And as Saxena says, it is Web technology and e-commerce that hold the key to the next century.