Economy Minister has launched a Digital Skills
Action Plan for 2024-34.
The Action Plan sets out how digital skills will be nurtured and
supported over the next decade by creating alternative pathways
into the digital sector.
Speaking about the Action Plan after visiting Belfast Met's e3
campus, the Minister said:
“Investment in the skills and talent of our people is vital for
our economic success. In this age of rapid technological change
and development, digital skills and a digitally competent
workforce are crucial to ensuring the continued competitiveness
of our businesses.
“This Action Plan will support and develop digital skills,
promoting the breadth of career opportunities within the digital
sector. We will create alternative pathways into the sector, with
a particular focus on underrepresented groups of people and those
who need additional support to access the same opportunities as
others.”
The Minister concluded:
“Our ambition is to transform the north into a world leading
digital hub. Focusing on our digital skills will boost our
economy and result in more and better job opportunities and
greater earning potential, alongside improved individual
wellbeing and social inclusion.”
The Action Plan was developed by the Department for the Economy's
Digital Skills Industry Reference Group and the NI Skills
Council.
John Healy, Ex-Chair of the Digital Skills Reference
Group, said:
“Digital skills are at the very core of our lives and
economy; these skills are essential in how we live and work.
To keep pace with the rapidly evolving digital landscape, we need
to continue to invest in our people, and embrace the change to
enrich many aspects of our lives.
“The Digital Skills Reference Group has delivered the Digital
Skills Action Plan, which is a significant milestone for the
group. This plan sets out alternative pathways into the sector.
This would not be possible without the successful collaboration
of our local government officials, educators and industry.”
Richard , Chief Executive of Northern
Ireland Screen, which was represented on the Digital Skills
Industry Reference Group, said:
“The creative and screen industries are delivering growth,
employment and innovation. Through its three Creative Learning
Centres, Northern Ireland Screen is continually investing in
training and development to improve digital skills for young
people and teachers across the curriculum.
“We remain strongly committed to the provision of programmes that
target the marginalised and most disadvantaged schools and are
delighted to support DfE's Digital Skills Action Plan to provide
more opportunities for young people, regardless of background or
circumstances, to experience, learn and develop creative and
digital skills.”
The Digital Skills Action Plan 2024-34 is available
at: Digital Skills Action Plan
2024 - 2034 - DfE website
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