Mon, 8 Dec 2008
Business chiefs in the Midlands are concerned a lack of workplace skills will affect the future of the local economy.
A shortage of skilled workers in the Midlands is threatening the economic success of the region, according to a study.
Midlands Matters, conducted by BDO Stoy Hayward, found business leaders consider there is a serious problem in their area and also particular sectors.
Those polled included financial directors, managing directors and chief execs from prominent local firms, according to the Birmingham Post.
Some 43 per cent of respondents felt there was a skills shortage and this highlighted a "real issue", said Mark Anslow of BDO Stoy Hayward.
Respondents said education and training were key issues, he added, "with 40 per cent and 35 per cent of respondents stating a lack of quality education and insufficient investment in training … as the reasons for this shortage".
A fifth said there should be better collusion between local industry and education.
Recently KPMG reported companies in the UK and worldwide think there is a shortage of workers who have the ICT skills needed for "modern business".
Online courses such as those offered by learndirect can help workers get up to speed with current ICT know-how.
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