16/09/2004
More women recruits needed in science, engineering and technology
A severe shortage of female employees in the science, engineering and technology sectors (SET) has propelled the government to launch a new UK Resource Centre for women.
The centre which is based in Bradford will liaise with British business to maximise the opportunities for professional women in SET. Around £4 million has been poured into the centre which will be a vital element in the government's strategy to reverse the current skills gap in the SET sectors. In recent years the government has consistently increased investment in science, but failure to encourage women to enter the SET sectors and provide good job opportunities has contributed to the current shortfall in employee numbers.
Despite being recognised as a world-leader in science and engineering, the UK has notched up millions in lost revenue to the sector.
Annette Williams, Director of the Resource Centre said that women now make up almost half of the workforce and yet their skills and expertise are not being utilised to the fullest. "It is in the interest of progress, innovation, and economic success that this problem is addressed and that the true potential of women is fostered. Shrewd employers are beginning to recognise this," she said.
Secretary for Trade and Industry Patricia Hewitt welcomed the centre saying it was an integral part of the government effort to recruit more people to the science, engineering and technology sectors.
(mmcg/mb)
The centre which is based in Bradford will liaise with British business to maximise the opportunities for professional women in SET. Around £4 million has been poured into the centre which will be a vital element in the government's strategy to reverse the current skills gap in the SET sectors. In recent years the government has consistently increased investment in science, but failure to encourage women to enter the SET sectors and provide good job opportunities has contributed to the current shortfall in employee numbers.
Despite being recognised as a world-leader in science and engineering, the UK has notched up millions in lost revenue to the sector.
Annette Williams, Director of the Resource Centre said that women now make up almost half of the workforce and yet their skills and expertise are not being utilised to the fullest. "It is in the interest of progress, innovation, and economic success that this problem is addressed and that the true potential of women is fostered. Shrewd employers are beginning to recognise this," she said.
Secretary for Trade and Industry Patricia Hewitt welcomed the centre saying it was an integral part of the government effort to recruit more people to the science, engineering and technology sectors.
(mmcg/mb)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
17 February 2004
UK sees 20% increase in multiple births over 10 years
Mothers are having 20% more multiple births than they were a decade ago, according to figures released today by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Statistics have revealed that in 2002, the multiple birth rate was 15 per 1,000 women giving birth, compared with 12.5 in 1992.
UK sees 20% increase in multiple births over 10 years
Mothers are having 20% more multiple births than they were a decade ago, according to figures released today by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Statistics have revealed that in 2002, the multiple birth rate was 15 per 1,000 women giving birth, compared with 12.5 in 1992.
11 March 2004
Scheme launched to reduce population of women in custody
A three-year government programme has been unveiled today which has been designed to tackle women's offending and reduce the number of women in prison.
Scheme launched to reduce population of women in custody
A three-year government programme has been unveiled today which has been designed to tackle women's offending and reduce the number of women in prison.
15 November 2007
Women 'Do Not Exercise Enough'
British women are not exercising enough, according to new research. According to research published by the Women's Sport and Fitness Foundation (WSFF), more than 80% of women are not exercising enough to benefit their health.
Women 'Do Not Exercise Enough'
British women are not exercising enough, according to new research. According to research published by the Women's Sport and Fitness Foundation (WSFF), more than 80% of women are not exercising enough to benefit their health.
19 August 2014
New Data Shows Women Hit By 'Mid-Life Pay Crisis'
Female managers over 40 years old are earning 35% less than men, according to new data by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and XpertHR. To earn the same as a male manager over a career, a woman would have to work the equivalent of over 14 years more.
New Data Shows Women Hit By 'Mid-Life Pay Crisis'
Female managers over 40 years old are earning 35% less than men, according to new data by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and XpertHR. To earn the same as a male manager over a career, a woman would have to work the equivalent of over 14 years more.
28 January 2014
Roache Claims To Have Never Met Victims
The trial of William Roache has heard that the Coronation Street actor does not remember ever meeting any of his alleged victims. 81-year-old Roache is accused of two counts of rape and four of indecent assault against five women aged 16 or under between 1965 and 1971. He denies all charges.
Roache Claims To Have Never Met Victims
The trial of William Roache has heard that the Coronation Street actor does not remember ever meeting any of his alleged victims. 81-year-old Roache is accused of two counts of rape and four of indecent assault against five women aged 16 or under between 1965 and 1971. He denies all charges.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:Storm Bert will move east through the Northern Isles today. Though weakening it will still bring strong to gale winds to many in Northern Ireland and showers to all, these frequent, occasionally heavy across northern districts. Maximum temperature 10 °C.Tonight:Strong west to northwest winds easing overnight. Showers, most frequent during the evening and in north but dwindling overnight to leave most dry and bright come dawn. Minimum temperature 1 °C.