Facebook Founder Mark Zuckerberg
The Internet Pioneer answered various questions in an open session. Reuters/Robert Galbraith

Facebook has launched a new website called TechPrep that will work as an online computer programming resource to help under-represented minorities adopt computer science as a career option.

The initiative will encourage young blacks and Latinos to take up science, technology, engineering and mathematics and make a career out of it.

“Improving diversity in the tech industry is an important challenge, and something we’re deeply committed to at Facebook”, wrote CEO and founder Mark Zuckerberg on his Facebook page.

The social networking giant launched TechPrep in association with McKinsey & Company. TechPrep will guide people in learning computer programming according to their age, skills, background and experience. The website is in English and Spanish.

“Everyone should be able to take advantage of the opportunities created by the internet”, Zuckerberg added.

TechPrep will also detail the skills required to become a computer programmer; the types of jobs available and even the expected salary for programmers. It will act as a repository of resources, including games and books.

“After looking closely at the data, we realized that one challenge is a lack of exposure to computer science and careers in technology, as well as a lack of resources for parents, guardians, and others who want to learn more”, wrote Maxine Williams, Global Director of Diversity in a blog post .

The program recognises that parents play an important role in shaping their child’s career, and will offer in-person opportunities and community events to help and guide parents who, in turn, can encourage and support their children to take up computer programming as a career.

Profiles of people pursuing a career in computer technology will also influence parents and guardians to motivate their children to build a similar career. Zuckerberg hopes that through this initiative, Facebook will be able to make significant contribution in diversifying the technology industry.

Williams said their internal research revealed that 50 percent of blacks and around 42 percent of Hispanics feel confident about working with computers, compared to 35 percent of whites and 35 percent of Asians. The company is hopeful that the major challenge of lack of exposure to technology will be diminished with TechPrep.

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