FORGING links between local students and international employers will enhance skills and future employability.
That was the message as Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry welcomed 250 delegates from over 85 countries to the first International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience (Iaeste) annual conference to be held in Northern Ireland.
For over 60 years the programme has been providing UK students in higher education with paid, course-related work placements in an international setting, while at the same time offering UK employers well-qualified and motivated international trainees.
During the conference delegates will have the opportunity to network, interact and knowledge share with key local businesses as well as contribute to the local hospitality, tourism and retail sectors.
Delivering the opening address Minister Farry said: “This conference being held for the first time in Northern Ireland provides an opportunity for us to highlight all the positives we have to offer and enhances our reputation globally.
“As highlighted in my Department’s recently published higher education strategy, Graduating to Success, I am committed to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to take part in an international mobility programme. That is why I fully support the work of Iaeste. The work experience gained enhances independence, flexibility, communication and foreign language skills all contributing to their personal and academic development.
“The reciprocal nature of the programme means that our students gain knowledge and skills beyond our borders and local employers have the opportunity to avail of some of the brightest students from across the globe.
“I congratulate the British Council on bringing their annual Iaeste conference to Northern Ireland this year. Despite recent headlines, this event reinforces the Executives’ aim of highlighting, Belfast and Northern Ireland as a major conference destination.”
Every year, Northern Ireland sends out around 35 students from Queen’s University and the University of Ulster to countries around the world. Around 35 students also come here for placements at the universities, as well as businesses in the engineering, IT or science sectors.
Meanwhile, Co Armagh pharmaceutical company, Almac announced a £6.5m project which could create up to 60 new jobs over the next three years.
The drugs firm which currently employs over 3,300 people has built a new 13,400 sq ft facility, which includes two new analytical laboratories and will effectively double the firm’s current pharmaceutical development capacity.
Recruitment of experienced skilled staff for the new roles has already started, for current vacancies visit www.nijobfinder.co.uk/browse/Almac-Group-Jobs.