27/03/2003

Government supports enterprising education

Enterprise Minister, Ian Pearson has launched the Enterprising Education plan which aims to strengthen links between the local business and education sectors for future prosperity.

‘Enterprising Education’, is an Action Plan, produced by three key Government Departments who have a direct interest in this subject: Enterprise, Trade and Investment; Employment and Learning; and Education.

The close linkage between this document and the Action Plan produced by the Economic Development Forum was demonstrated at the joint launch of both documents this morning at Newry and Kilkeel Institute of Further and Higher Education.

Mr Pearson said: “The Northern Ireland Executive’s Programme for Government recognised the pivotal role of education and training in supporting economic development. Publication of this Action Plan fulfils a Programme for Government commitment to take action to integrate entrepreneurship and education.

“It will take time, and concerted effort by a range of key stakeholders, to achieve the degree of integration envisaged in the PfG. With that in mind, the primary purpose of this Action Plan is to establish an initial framework of agreed and co-ordinated actions to ensure greater synergy, co-operation and understanding between the worlds of business and education. This will provide a strong foundation for moving forward the process of integration and will inform future decision-making.”

Welcoming the Action Plan, Jane Kennedy, Minister with responsibility for Education and for Employment and Learning said: “Creating a culture of entrepreneurship is a key factor in sustainable economic growth. Therefore introducing the concepts to all school children and to young adults in education and training is an essential ingredient in any entrepreneurship strategy and in promoting employability in future managers and employers.

“I strongly welcome this action plan. Setting up a business is something anyone can do and I would encourage young people to explore the possibilities and create their own success stories.”

(MB)

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