The Centre For Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) and the University of Mauritius have joined hands to set up the C-SAC (C-DAC School of Advanced Computing). Given the research and academic background of C-DAC and University of Mauritius, it has been decided that C-SAC will be set up and operated by C-DAC with full academic recognition and participation from the University of Mauritius.

The infrastructure, academic and marketing support is being provided by C-DAC, while the University of Mauritius provides the course syllabus setting, certification and specific module teaching. C-SAC will be set up in two phases. The first phase will offer Entry level courses for beginners, specialized courses for graduates and courses sought by the Industry. As part of the second phase, apart from offering training in diverse areas of Information technology (IT), research and development activities will be undertaken.

Amongst the first academic programs to be launched is a degree program designated as BSc (Hons) Information Technology. The first batch of this course commenced on September 16, 2002.

This Program aims at imparting a thorough understanding of the various components of Information Technology geared towards producing computer professionals, who will integrate easily into the job market and keep up with emerging technologies.

The Program is designed to provide a balanced mix of theoretical concepts as well as exposure to application methodologies. With substantial focus on the practical and hands-on component, the program intends to ensure "learning by doing". Thus practical modules and hands-on exercises will reinforce the classroom learning experience.

On completing the requirements of the degree program, students will have acquired adequate skills for the design and development of efficient Information Technology solutions.

The C-SAC was formally launched by Shri. Pramod Mahajan the Hon'ble Union Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Govt. of India on 1st October, 2002, during his recent visit to Mauritius for laying the foundation stone of the Ebene Cyber Tower. Addressing the gathering in the University of Mauritius on 'Development in Information Technology and prospects of collaboration between India and Mauritius', Shri. Mahajan complimented the efforts of C-DAC and University of Mauritius in setting up the school, which is aimed at addressing the needs of the growing IT sector in Mauritius.

On the occasion, Prof. Mohammedbhai, Vice Chancellor spoke of the importance of this collaboration between University of Mauritius and C-DAC. Prof. Fagoonee, Pro Vice Chancellor, commented that C-DAC School of Advanced Computing is a working example of the close collaboration between Indian and Mauritian Institutions towards making Information Technology as the fifth pillar of the Mauritian economy after the success of Sugar, Textile, Tourism and Services industries.

At the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Ebene Cybercity a dedicated IT infrastructure being constructed with the help of US$100 Million line of credit extended by the Govt. of India to Mauritius, the Prime Minister of Mauritius, Sir Aneerood Jugnauth also praised the initiative taken by C-DAC to help Mauritius realize its future mission of becoming a "cyber-island'.

C-DAC has an umbrella MOU with BPML (Business Parks of Mauritius Ltd.) a state sector undertaking of the Government of Mauritius for extending training, software development and advisory services in the area of Information Technology. BPML has been set up by the Government of Mauritius to manage the Ebene Cybercity project.