Young individuals entering the workforce will receive additional assistance through a novel collaboration involving government, industry, and trade unions.
The newly formed Early Careers Jobs Alliance will unite government bodies, employers, trade unions, and youth to examine the impact of AI on entry-level positions. Co-chaired by Mike Clancy, General Secretary of Prospect, and Katie Gallagher OBE, the government’s AI Champion for the Digital and Technologies sector, the alliance will analyze the evolving nature of entry-level work. It aims to provide practical guidance to businesses on restructuring roles while ensuring opportunities for young people.
With a funding of £20 million, the initiative will be unveiled during the Technology Secretary’s address at the world’s inaugural AI Adoption Summit. The plan includes an AI bootcamp initiative across England to offer a pathway to employment for young individuals at risk of unemployment and disengagement from education and training. This initiative follows a report indicating that over a million 16-24-year-olds in the UK are presently not engaged in education, employment, or training.
Liz Kendall, the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, emphasized the importance of creating an AI future that benefits both businesses and workers. She stressed the need for support during the transition of jobs in the face of technological advancements. Kendall’s objective is to equip young people with the necessary skills to succeed in a technologically evolving environment.
Pat McFadden, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, highlighted the significance of offering young individuals the opportunity to build fulfilling careers amidst economic changes and technological progress. McFadden emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that every young person has access to opportunities for learning and earning through the Youth Guarantee program. By providing young individuals with technological and AI skills, the government aims to ensure that everyone can benefit from the opportunities brought about by the technological revolution.