Training centers and publishers, too, like a path to help them educate their clients. Expand the marketing of Linux. Every training center and book that focuses on the certification of a product creates more marketing about the product. Turn students into advocates. If students learn all about Linux and how to install, configure and use the operating system, they will become advocates for Linux.
People recommend what they know.
Provide other means of employment for Linux-skilled individuals. Recognize capabilities of Linux professionals. A well-done certification program provides a mechanism to recognize individuals with Linux. Assist in the hiring process. Most controversially, a certification program can assist a hiring manager in understanding what level of expertise someone has.