Belfast Met Launches Range Of Innovative New Business Courses

Belfast Met has announced the launch of a range of new courses to help young people gain the right skills and qualifications to progress careers in business, digital, fintech and professional services.

The college has developed the programme in partnership with a range of key development and delivery partners including Citi, Allstate, CME, PwC and Catalyst.

Participants will be able to pursue further studies and training in FE, HE or apprenticeships covering modules which include: Problem Solving Skills in Business Administration, Customer Service and Communication and Introduction to Cyber Security.

Louise Warde Hunter, Principal and Chief Executive of Belfast Metropolitan College commented: "This work has come about as a result of a series of conversations with the partner companies, initiated with support of the US Consulate in Belfast and we are delighted to have Joe Kennedy, US Economic Envoy to Northern Ireland, here today to launch the programme.

"Northern Ireland has enjoyed significant growth in recent years in the Digital, FinTech and Professional Services sectors and it is encouraging that our partner companies are working to create new opportunities for a range of young people who might otherwise not have easy access to these key sectors."

Leigh Meyer, Citi Belfast Site Head said: "Citi champions the potential of everyone and empowers their growth and success by creating a culture defined by inclusion. Citi Belfast is Northern Ireland's largest financial services employer with over 4000 colleagues. We are delighted to be collaborating with Belfast Met and a range of key influencers and local stakeholders within the financial and professional services sector to support this new programme designed to provide recognized skills and qualifications and progressive career pathways for all.

"This is a one-year programme which is currently open for application with Belfast Met where students will study and complete an 'Extended Certificate in Business Administration Skills' qualification which combines business and technology skills and where they will also get the opportunity to work with the Catalyst Generation Innovation Team on practical challenges to enhance their soft skills, including company visits and access to experienced mentors."

Joe Kennedy, US Economic Envoy to Northern Ireland, said: "My passion for inclusive innovation is exemplified by the values and goals of Belfast Met. Great to hear about the role which the College plays in working with key partners to provide access to opportunities for thousands of young people in priority growth sectors."

Mike Brennan, Permanent Secretary of the Department for the Economy reflected: "The economic strategy for Northern Ireland is built on three key pillars, innovation, sustainability and inclusion. It is also grounded in meaningful partnerships such as we are celebrating today, ones focussed on widening participation in the workforce by equipping young people with the skills they need to succeed in a vital growth area for our economy."