120 Training Opportunities Announced In Software Development

Employment and Learning Minister Stephen Farry today announced funding for 120 training opportunities in Software Development.

The Professional Software Development courses which will commence in September 2014 aims to provide HND, degree or equivalent graduates in non IT disciplines with the skills and experience required to take up exciting new opportunities in the IT industry.

The Minister said: "The ICT Skills Action Plan challenges Government to help match the skills of the workforce with the skills our employers need. The Professional Software Development Course is an excellent example of how we are doing exactly that.

"The ICT sector is the driving force of a globally competitive economy, underpinning innovation, competitiveness and long term prosperity. It is imperative that we support this sector locally to enhance the quality of our workforce, maximise employment opportunities and give our businesses a competitive edge in the global marketplace.

"This programme proves that Government, our further education colleges and local employers can respond quickly to deliver a programme to meet the skills needs of the sector."

The programme comprises of 17 weeks of classroom based learning delivered by all six Northern Ireland regional colleges, in the following locations – Ballymena, Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, Dungannon, Lisburn and Portadown. It will deliver accreditation of an industry recognised IT qualification, BTEC Level 5 Extended Diploma in Professional Software Development.

(CD)