NORTHERN Ireland’s further education sector is leading the way to jobs and prosperity, according to a prominent educationalist.
Malachy McAleer, director at South West College, was speaking at the launch of Northern Ireland’s first Higher Level ICT Apprenticeship programme at the Enniskillen Image Centre.
The pilot programme, funded by the Department for Employment and Learning, is designed to equip participants for a range of critical highdemand IT roles including software and web developer, desktop support, infrastructure support, server support and cloud developer. The Higher Level ICT Apprenticeship will also offer Microsoft certified technical specialist accreditation.
Mr McAleer said: “South West College is the first college Microsoft has chosen to partner with and offer its globally recognised accreditation.
“The further education sector is leading the way to prosperity by equipping the talent pool skills and know-how that make Northern Ireland an attractive place to invest and work in.”
Addressing delegates at the launch, Employment Minister Dr Stephen Farry said: “The importance of the ICT sector cannot be underestimated. It is the driving force of a globally competitive economy, underpinning innovation, competitiveness and long term prosperity.
“The ICT sector has not only survived the current economic climate, it has continued to grow. However, the sector needs more suitably skilled people and my Department’s ICT Action Plan sets out actions we will be taking in collaboration with ICT businesses to address these issues. One of the key actions within the plan is the delivery of a higher level apprenticeship.
“I commend South West College and the participating employers in developing the programme being followed through this higher level apprenticeship.”
Employers McAvoy Group, Concept NI, Computer Centre, Meteor Electrical Ltd and MJH Insurance have already signedup to take on apprentices and offer on-the-job learning that will underpin the college-based and online learning.