A higher skills ambition for Northern Ireland. Skills for growth and social inclusion.

Research Launch – Wednesday 27th January 2021. 2.00pm – 4.00pm.

Economic growth and social inclusion are intrinsically linked to education and skills, so a strong learning culture is essential to all modern economies. The findings of this independent research however shows how economic growth has tended to be weaker in N. Ireland over the past decade than the UK as a whole and the Republic of Ireland. The report concludes that now is the time to set a higher ambition around skills for growth and social inclusion, aligned to concerted action to deliver better outcomes. Learning needs to become the golden thread running through all public policy within N. Ireland.

This report, from the Learning and Work Institute, commissioned by OCN Northern Ireland, is both timely and robust. Success will however pivot on Government and social partners moving out of current silos to build on proven best practice, alongside a shared focus on the delivery of better individual and community outcomes in line with our Programme for Government.

On the afternoon of Wednesday 27th January 2021, we will share the detail of this research and the key findings.  An expert panel of practitioners will then consider practical steps to success and early wins. Speakers will include policy makers, including relevant government Ministers and decision makers, practitioners and social partners from across civic society.

This event will be hosted online, and the full research report will be available after the event. We would welcome your attendance and contribution to what promises to be an important event in helping shape a higher skills ambition for growth and social inclusion within Northern Ireland. Please click here to register.