Career Guidance Reform Vital To Future Economy Of NI

Career guidance reforms are vital to the future economy of Northern Ireland, Economy Minister Gordon Lyons has said as he welcomed the publication of an independent review into the careers guidance provided by his Department.

Commissioned in early December 2021 and carried out by world-renowned expert in careers and skills Dr Deirdre Hughes OBE, the review examined current careers provision, international best practice and innovative approaches in improving the delivery of careers guidance to young people and adults.

Speaking after the publication of the review, the Minister said:

"Sound careers advice is the foundation to a thriving economy and it is essential Northern Ireland has the skilled workforce that underpins my Department's 10X Economic Vision.

"There is considerable interest in the need to reform the careers guidance system here. As the world of work continues to evolve and the skills needed change with it, it is vital we take steps to ensure people of all ages have access to the support needed to make informed career decisions.

"I want to thank Dr Hughes and also over 4,000 of you, from across a range of stakeholders, who came forward to share your thoughts and contribute to the research."

The Minister added: "Dr Hughes's report has highlighted there is a significant mismatch between the career aspirations of young people and the skills needs of employers. In addition, people of all ages need more support to upskill and take advantage of the opportunities available in growing and emerging sectors of greatest economic importance. I have therefore asked officials to bring forward plans outlining how recommendations from the report can be taken forward, and in the meantime progress a number of initiatives that have already started, including the development of a careers and skills portal; the introduction of a blended service delivery model ensuring young people and their parents can access they help they need; and better targeting of individuals of all ages to raise participation levels amongst underrepresented groups."

Commenting on the review of careers provision, Chair of the Careers Advisory Forum (CAF) Judith Gillespie said: "I welcome the publication of this important report and associated recommendations. The Careers Advisory Forum has been calling for a number of the recommendations outlined in the report to be implemented. We particularly welcome the recommendation to develop a standalone careers and skills portal that could play an important role in connecting the full range of stakeholders to the changing needs of the economy. The CAF looks forward to working with the Department in the coming months as we consider further the recommendations outlined."