Skills programme takes its place at round-table event

THE shadow secretary of state for innovation, universities and skills has added his support to pro.manchester’s campaign to put skills at the top of the city’s agenda.

David Willetts MP attended a round-table lunch, organised by pro.manchester in conjunction with Manchester Metropolitan University and the Institute of Directors, to talk to guests about the existing skills programme.

pro.manchester skills manager Catherine Heaton said attendees – including representatives from the NWDA, Greater Manchester Strategic Alliance, the NHS and the Conservative Party – were given the opportunity to pose questions to the MP.

She added: “Several messages came out of the round-table event and this was a useful way of evaluating the existing skills agenda as well as looking at positive changes we can make to the skills programme."

“The round-table attendees showed strong support for the academies programme, with concerns expressed about the existing qualification structure and its implications for employers, although there was agreement for change."

“There was discussion about the need for structural simplification, with funding routed through a smaller number of bodies. This is something the shadow secretary for skills took on board.”

This round-table lunch was one of a series of events planned by pro.manchester and its partners to highlight the importance of skills in the city region.

The event was held at MMU’s Ormond House.