COLLEGES NI, the representative body for Northern Ireland’s six Further Education (FE) colleges, last week unveiled a 10-point manifesto that calls on the incoming Executive to put skills development at the heart of the next Programme for Government.
Launched at the Long Gallery in Stormont, the manifesto outlines 10 key policy priorities that would give colleges a stronger role in efforts to rebuild and rebalance the economy and increase the economic competitiveness of Northern Ireland over the next five years.
Prepared ahead of the 2016 Assembly elections, it aims to support political parties in five key areas that include: growing the economy to create prosperity for all; making better use of existing resources; strengthening educational partnerships to deliver more informed career choices; supporting all in society to access learning opportunities; and promoting skills and partnerships at an international level.
Gerry Campbell, Chief Executive of Colleges Northern Ireland, said: “The next Northern Ireland Assembly election in May 2016 will be hugely important in shaping our economy and society over the next five years. “As a key driver of the economy, Further Education colleges are uniquely placed to help build a solid foundation for economic growth and developing stronger social cohesion.
“It is timely that we launch the Colleges NI Manifesto today. In doing so, we wish to highlight and promote the important economic role that colleges will continue to play in terms of economic and skills development.
“Skills development and growth must be at the heart of plans to develop and grow our economy.
“Colleges are ready and prepared to support all of our politicians, to maximise the opportunities that will arise as a result of the reduction in the rate of Corporation Tax, and secure new opportunities to establish a resilient and stable economy.”
Robin Swann MLA, Chair of the Employment and Learning Committee, said: “The establishment of the new Department for the Economy is a ‘game changer’ bringing together Further Education, Higher Education, business and enterprise engagement teams into a single, focused department.
The Further Education Colleges will continue to focus on improving the skills of our people and in delivering excellence to increase the economic competitiveness of Northern Ireland.”
Speaking at the launch of the manifesto, Glyn Roberts, Chair of Colleges Northern Ireland, said: “Colleges are critical cogs in the machinery of the Northern Ireland economy.
“A vibrant and f lexible FE sector will continue to make a valuable contribution to the economy, society and to the overall rebuilding and rebalancing of the economy.”