Strong partnerships boost Northern Ireland’s ICT skills

A new report published today shows there has been major progress with tackling the skills needs of the software industry in Northern Ireland.

Launched at a special industry meeting hosted by Minister for Employment and Learning, Sir Reg Empey and major IT employer Citi, the 'ICT Future Skills Action Plan Progress Report', charts the positive steps taken by Government and industry since the original action plan was published in June 2008.

Speaking at the event, Sir Reg said: "It is great to see that the strong partnership between government and industry, which is so evident in this project, has reaped real rewards for this key sector.

“When we first started this work we wanted to get the message across that ICT is a real profession, offering exciting and rewarding careers. Through the range of activities undertaken over the past year, and with the support of industry, it is clear that this message is beginning to get through.

“We have reached more than 1,000 young people at a host of Bring IT On school workshops. Over 81% of adults saw our Bring IT On TV ad, many of whom took the next step and found out more through the Bring IT On website.

“I welcome the fact that so many graduates answered the call to join the Software Professional conversion course, a very fast and effective way to get into this exciting industry. This year saw the biggest number joining and completing the course, 95 enthusiastic and now highly skilled people available to our local companies.

“But the world does not stand still and nor must we. Next year we want even more young people to discover what this sector has to offer. So we will keep working with e-skills UK, Invest Northern Ireland, Momentum and the companies themselves to ensure that the talent pool available continues to grow.”

Notes to editors:

1. The ICT Future Skills Action Plan Progress Report reflects on and highlights the activity which the Department has led during the past year.

Some of the key results are:

• 130% increase in enrolments to Software Professional Course;
• 98% estimated reach of advertising campaign (across all media);
• 200 teachers and careers advisers up-skilled and updated;
• Over 1000 students (14-16) attended Bring-IT-On workshops;
• 11,000 unique visits to the new Bring-IT-On website;
• 100% increase in prospective students visiting QUB Computer Science Department;
• 2,000 students (14-18) attended BEP/CCEA Employability Fests.

2. The ICT Future Skills Action Plan can be accessed at the DEL website.

3. The ICT Future Skills Action Plan Progress Report can be accessed from the DEL website.

4. All media enquiries should be directed to the Department for Employment and Learning Communications Branch, on 028 9025 7872. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.