Speaking at the Graduation event at Parliament Buildings, Minister Farry said: “I commend the ongoing work of the further education colleges and Career Academies UK in providing these opportunities for students to help bridge the gap between education and work. These work experience opportunities improve students’ employability skills and therefore improve their employment prospects. Employers also report that engaging with Career Academies has enhanced their own staff development which in turn benefits our local economy.
“The students here today have been positive ambassadors for all young people in further education. I am confident that the skills and knowledge they have acquired during the internships through the Career Academies programme will benefit them as they plan their future careers.
“I am particularly impressed with the promotion of the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Academies, which I believe will help to ensure that our young people fully realise the future opportunities in this important area.”
The growth in the number of local graduates taking part has led to the introduction of regional Graduation events and this is the second Northern Ireland Graduation to take place.
Representatives from an impressive network of employers who work in partnership with Career Academies to provide students with rich experiences in the world of work, including Caterpillar, Halifax, McAuley Precision, Michelin Tyre Plc, Randox Laboratories, Schrader Electronics, Wrightbus and Autoline Insurance, attended the prestigious event.
Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry is pictured (l-r) with: Anne Spackman (Chief Executive, Career Academies UK), Brian McAlister (NRC) & Courtney Hanna (SERC) at the Career Academies UK graduation. Brian was recently names Engineering Student of the Year.
