Ariane Burgess, Scottish Green MSP for the Highlands & Islands region, is marking World Youth Skills Day by highlighting the importance of educating and training young people to succeed in the workforce.
“World Youth Skills Day is a crucial reminder of the need to equip our young people with the skills they need to thrive in the workforce and contribute to making the world a better place,” said Ms Burgess.
Ms Burgess highlighted the importance of teaching technical skills through qualifications, apprenticeship schemes, and support for young entrepreneurs.
“Technical skills are increasingly important in today’s economy, and we need to ensure our young people have the training and support they need to succeed,” she said.
Ms Burgess has previously visited local businesses such as AES Solar in Forres (pictured) and AJ Engineering, where she saw firsthand how these companies are investing in young people through apprenticeships.
“Small, innovative businesses like AES Solar and AJ Engineering make a huge contribution to addressing the climate crisis and boosting the variety of renewable energy Scotland generates.
“They are great examples of what can be achieved to the green skills we need to diversify and secure our economy,” she said.
Ms Burgess also pointed to the role of schools, colleges, trade unions, and youth groups in training a new generation of engaged citizens.
“It’s a collective effort, and we all have a role to play in supporting our young people,” she said.
Burgess pointed to the success of the Modern and Graduate Apprenticeship Programme, a scheme which has enabled several hundred individuals to undertake training and enhance their skills in a variety of roles and locations across the Highlands.
The University of the Highlands and Islands is one of the largest providers of apprenticeship training in Scotland, while Highland Council’s Modern Apprenticeship (MA) and Graduate Apprenticeship (GA) programmes have supported over 500 employees to enrol in apprenticeships
Ms Burgess concluded by saying:
“On this World Youth Skills Day, let’s celebrate the incredible potential of our young people and commit to providing them with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed.”
