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ICT learning is essential for everyday life - Empey

14 May 2009

Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, has launched ICT as the third Essential Skill.

After a two year pilot of ICT as an essential skill, in which over 1,800 learners participated, from August 2009 it will join literacy and numeracy as being considered an essential skill.

Addressing an audience today of Further Education Colleges, training organisations and other stakeholders, Sir Reg said: “Without basic ICT skills, individuals risk being isolated in a world which is increasingly linked through information and technology.  ICT and ‘technology illiteracy’ is now as great a barrier to social exclusion and employability as a lack of literacy and numeracy skills has been to date.”

He continued:  “By providing access to free ICT training courses, in addition to the existing literacy and numeracy training, we will build on the success of the Essential Skills Strategy.  This will further improve the skills profile of the Northern Ireland workforce in order to drive forward growth, productivity and long-term prosperity.”

Sir Reg pointed towards the business community to help address the problems faced by employees with essential skills problems.  He said: “If businesses are to succeed in today’s increasingly competitive global marketplace, then employers must do more to develop their workforce. Providing the right opportunities for training helps to attract and retain confident, motivated and loyal staff, with knock on-benefits such as greater efficiency, better quality, improved productivity and higher profits.”

Essential Skills courses are available now in a range of locations across Northern Ireland.  You can obtain details about free courses by ringing the free and confidential helpline number 0800 66 0800 or by texting HOW to 60900. Alternatively you can visit www.knowhowni.info

NOTES TO THE EDITORS:

  1. Media queries to the Department for Employment and Learning Press Office on 028 9025 7872.  Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.