An innovative new programme is helping young people in Belfast to develop digital skills and to raise awareness of ICT career pathways.
Belfast Met’s Girdwood Community Hub has launched the free Tech Connects programme to encourage young people to choose relevant subjects and skills that are required to work in the rapidly expanding technology and digital sector in Northern Ireland.
The programme is delivered by Belfast Met, the Bytes Project and DigiSkills, with input from industry experts throughout and is funded through Belfast City Council’s PEACE IV Action Plan.
Throughout the project young people will learn about using technology for good, internet safety and responsible use of social media and digital technology and also build their problem solving, communication and teamwork skills. They will learn about career opportunities in IT and what life changing further education and training opportunities are available to them.
Participants will also be able to benefit from individual mentoring support in Personal & Social Development as well as Technical Assistance and Employability & Careers advice.
Damian Duffy, Director of Curriculum at Belfast Metropolitan College said: “We are delighted to be delivering the Tech Connects programme here at Girdwood. There has been tremendous growth in the IT and Digital sectors in Northern Ireland over the last few years and Tech Connects provides a starting point for young people wanting to explore the potential of technology and the many different opportunities that it opens up for them.
“Equally, we’re aiming to reach young people who maybe wouldn’t have considered this area because we know that digital skills will be increasingly in demand across all sectors of the economy and not just those industries traditionally seen as IT.”
Stephen Dallas, Director of The Bytes Project, said: “There’s a danger that some of our young people will miss out on fulfilling their potential by not developing their digital skills, particularly those young people from our most disadvantaged communities. Programmes like Tech Connects will help to ensure that all of our young people can equip themselves with the tools to navigate this new world and flourish in it.”
Julie McGrath of DigiSkills, said: “We’re excited to be part of this new approach to engaging young people with technology. Tech Connects will raise awareness and aspirations amongst young people and show them how tech is changing the future of life and work.”
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