Morris wants business backing to bridge the skills gap

Morris wants business backing to bridge the skills gap

Education and skills secretary Estelle Morris has urged business leaders to get more involved in the business of education in schools, universities,colleges and the workplace. She told the Confederation of British Industry's annual conference:

At this key time for the world economy, the need for a highly skilled,well trained workforce has never been greater. There is a new urgency to tackle the skills gaps which have held back some businesses at a time of economic growth. Without action, the economic consequences of skills gaps are serious. They limit not only the opportunities for individuals, but also the capacity of businesses to innovate and thrive. We know that part of the deficit in adult skills is as a result of past failures to provide a decent education for children. We have done much to raise standards in schools, but it will be years before the first young people to benefit from improved standards will be in the prime of their working life. For those in work today, one thing is clear. Tackling the skills deficit without the input of business is simply not an option.

Mrs Morris argued that today's workers will be motivated to improve their skills only if they can see the difference it will make to them, backed with the support of their employer.

Every year, up to £23 billion is invested in workforce development, but there are some key gaps. Very few small firms are able to offer formal training. People with low qualifications are unlikely to progress up the skill ladder through training from their employer. We need to work together to find new ways to boost the skills of adults – building on initiatives such as learndirect and introducing a new-look individual learning account. Businesses need to work with us to tell the Government what they need. I want all businesses to work with their local learning and skills council and to contribute to their local strategic plans. These are a unique opportunity to shape training for years to come and now, more than ever, is the time to make sure we get this right. In the longer term, I want the relationship between Government and business in education to be based on a realistic appreciation of the strengths of each party, mutual understanding and respect. We need the structure to build real collaboration rather than being merely bureaucratic window dressing, and help for each party in developing the skills and understanding to deal with the other. We want new sector skills councils to drive this forward. They will provide a strong voice for business, and we will listen. Skills and knowledge are the key resources that enable people and the economy to deal with change. Education and training are the new welfare state. They should be there from cradle to grave. By 2010 we must have laid the foundations to ensure that young people and adults in work have the knowledge and productive skills to match the best in the world. The challenges we face today will be far greater then if we do not work together to deliver this.