A NEW digital skills and employability programme for 600 people from some of the most socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds has been announced by a US delegation visiting Belfast.
Funded by Bank of America, Belfast Metropolitan College will deliver at least 30 skills academies to hundreds of participants over a period of three years.
Unlike similar government-funded assured skills academies for the likes of KPMG, Microsoft, FinTrU and ASOS, participants will not have the prospect of an automatic job interview.
But Belfast Met said it will support individuals facing social exclusion by providing skills and training that will help secure employment and broaden education pathways.
The announcement was made during a visit by the US Ambassador to the UK, Jane Hartley, and a US business delegation, led by the US Envoy for Economic Affairs in Northern Ireland, Joe Kennedy III.
“I have seen remarkable outcomes from similar Bank of America-funded projects in the US and I am hugely optimistic about its capacity to deliver the digital skills for young people in Northern Ireland need to succeed in the modern economy,” said the ambassador.
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“I am thankful to Bank of America for their generous contribution and convey the commitment of US Embassy London and US Consulate Belfast to remain engaged in this and other programmes that support Northern Ireland’s efforts to ensure that the peace you’ve built is even stronger through prosperity.”
Louise Warde Hunter, principal and CEO of Belfast Met said: “We know that developing digital skills in our young people and others struggling to access work to support their families is critical to fostering continued growth, productivity and innovation in our economy.
“This programme will act as a bridge between the aspirations and potential of our young people and the opportunities provided through the investment and commitment of business and industry leaders.
“It’s a concrete expression of our commitment to sustaining the peace and prosperity of our city; championing inclusion and diversity; and providing meaningful opportunities to all.
“We are deeply grateful to Bank of America for this remarkable gift and to US Ambassador Hartley for her vision and support in bringing us together and making this partnership happen.”
Bernard Mensah, president of international at Bank of America said: “At Bank of America, we believe that there is untapped talent in every community, and by providing individuals from all backgrounds with the skills and training they need to succeed, we can help them achieve their full potential, contribute towards economic growth, and help build strong, healthy societies.”
