New ‘Learn and Earn’ Educational Model Launched to help meet the Demand for ICT Skills

FIT, together with SOLAS and the Educational Training Boards today announced details of a new strand of education and training available to young people in Ireland from early next year. The new courses, expected to be piloted from February, will offer students the opportunity to ‘earn and learn’ as they work to secure a tech sector recognised qualification, the FIT ICT Associate Professional.

The FIT ICT Skills Audit 2014 highlighted that over 75% of ICT skills currently needed by employers are at entry and competent levels and are thus accessible to candidates who undertake recognised technology training programmes.

With an estimated 7,000 vacancies available in the sector this suggests that over 5,000 vacancies could be filled by people with the new FIT ICT Associate Professional qualification. The dual education nature of the courses – combining college-based learning with work-based training – broadens the choices available to people, particularly those who favour learning by doing.

For more information about the course head over to the FIT website on this link.