University initiative will create hundreds of opportunities for young people
A landmark initiative that will create employment opportunities for young people across the Forth Valley has been launched at the University of Stirling.
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A landmark initiative that will create employment opportunities for young people across the Forth Valley has been launched at the University of Stirling.
The innovative scheme will see the University link employers with schools in partnership with Developing the Young Workforce (DYW), a Scottish Government-funded programme which aims to prepare learners for their transition into the world of work.
The University’s Dr John Rogers signed an agreement with DYW which creates a mechanism to deliver for young people through its procurement practices and offer work experience, apprenticeships, mentoring and training courses.
I am confident that, working together, we will create many more opportunities for our young people and businesses
Suppliers will be expected to engage with local schools via DYW if they are successfully awarded a contract under the University of Stirling's City Region Deal Programmes. The scheme could see hundreds of employment opportunities created.
The Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal is a £214 million investment in the future of the region, unlocking potential to drive economic growth, productivity and prosperity.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the University and DYW is first of its kind among City Deal partners in Scotland.
Dr John Rogers, Executive Director of Research, Innovation and Business Engagement at the University of Stirling, said: “Improving access to skilled work for people in our region is a central commitment of the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal.
“I am delighted that the University is further developing our partnership working with DYW through this MOU and I am confident that, working together, we will create many more opportunities for our young people and businesses.”
Clare Flynn, DYW Regional Lead, said: “DYW Forth Valley are delighted to be collaborating with the University of Stirling to provide opportunity for the young people of Forth Valley as part of the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal.
“Through this partnership, it is our aim to empower employers to build a skilled workforce by putting young people at the heart of their operations.
“It is certainly an exciting time in the region, and we are proud to participate in joint awareness-raising activities that emphasise the importance of engaging with schools and providing opportunities for our school pupils.”