Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 October 2021
174. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his plans to ensure that in future years the effect of Covid-19 will not materially affect the supply of qualified academic and technical graduates to the workplace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50147/21]
View answerThe challenge to deliver adequate numbers of suitably qualified academic and technical graduates to meet the demands of the country is a fundamental focus for the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
The higher and further education sectors responded in an agile fashion to the challenges of Covid-19 and continuity for the most part was maintained throughout the pandemic. Institutions and providers carefully balanced necessary onsite activities with prevailing public health advice.
In response to the urgent need for activation, upskilling and reskilling as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, SOLAS – in partnership with my Department, ETBI and the sixteen ETBs, and with input from the DSP, the DETE and industry representatives – has developed the Skills to Compete initiative. This initiative is delivered through ETBs, including through contracted training, and works in tandem with INTREO offices, Regional Skills Fora, and Enterprise Ireland to effectively target individuals who may have been displaced from their employment as a result of Covid-19. Courses offered under the initiative are built around three key priorities: delivering the essential skills required for modern workplaces; building strong digital skills; and developing the specific vocational skills to secure opportunities in growing sectors and occupations.
More than 15,000 enrolled on the Education and Training board led Skills to Compete initiative to date with funding for further places secured. The remainder of the places will be taken up over the course of 2021. The establishment of an oversight group with DSP, DFHERIS, ETBI & SOLAS representatives has strengthened planning and further definition of programmes.
The Action Plan for Apprenticeship 2021-2025 was launched on 19th April 2021, and it sets out a five year strategy to deliver on the programme for Government commitment of reaching 10,000 new apprentice registrations per year by 2025 and which will ensure we have a modern apprenticeship system that is reflective of Irish society and supports both learners and employers along the way. There are currently 62 different apprenticeships leading to qualifications at level 5-10 on the National Framework of Qualifications, with over 7,500 employers employing almost 22,500 apprentices.
