A new ICT apprenticeship scheme will offer opportunities for 30 people in software development and IT infrastructure roles in both the public and private sector.
The scheme, involving government and a number of local ICT employers, was launched recently by Employment and Learning Minister, Dr. Stephen Farry and Finance and Personnel Minister, Sammy Wilson.
Mr Farry said: “The ICT sector is of critical importance to the growth of the Northern Ireland economy and to achieving the aims set out in the Northern Ireland Economic Strategy. If we are to realise the ICT sector’s full potential, it is clear that more needs to be done to improve the match between the skills of those people in the workforce and the skills our employers need to help our companies grow.
“The individuals who are successful in being recruited as ICT Apprentices on this scheme will be given the opportunity to develop skills, achieve qualifications and enhance their career prospects while helping employers develop their business and raise the prosperity of Northern Ireland.
“The recent launch of the ICT Action Plan and the creation of this collaborative scheme indicate how committed government, local employers and education and training providers are to working together to support the growth of the local ICT sector.”
Mr Wilson said: “The Executive is committed to supporting young people into employment by providing skills and training.
“This innovative new apprenticeship scheme presents an excellent opportunity to offer young people an exciting career in ICT and to ensure that when they are seeking employment they have the necessary skills to take advantage of potential opportunities. In addition this consolidated approached by the public and private sector demonstrates that we can work effectively together for the betterment of Northern Ireland.”