Economy Minister Conor Murphy has launched a Digital Skills Action Plan for 2024-34.

The Action Plan sets out how digital skills will be nurtured and supported over the next decade by creating alternative pathways into the digital sector.

Speaking about the Action Plan after visiting Belfast Met’s e3 campus, the Minister said: “Investment in the skills and talent of our people is vital for our economic success. In this age of rapid technological change and development, digital skills and a digitally competent workforce are crucial to ensuring the continued competitiveness of our businesses.

“This Action Plan will support and develop digital skills, promoting the breadth of career opportunities within the digital sector. We will create alternative pathways into the sector, with a particular focus on underrepresented groups of people and those who need additional support to access the same opportunities as others.”

The Minister concluded: “Our ambition is to transform the north into a world leading digital hub. Focusing on our digital skills will boost our economy and result in more and better job opportunities and greater earning potential, alongside improved individual wellbeing and social inclusion.”

The Action Plan was developed by the Department for the Economy’s Digital Skills Industry Reference Group and the NI Skills Council.

John Healy, Ex-Chair of the Digital Skills Reference Group, said: “Digital skills are at the very core of our lives and economy; these skills are essential in how we live and work. To keep pace with the rapidly evolving digital landscape, we need to continue to invest in our people, and embrace the change to enrich many aspects of our lives.

“The Digital Skills Reference Group has delivered the Digital Skills Action Plan, which is a significant milestone for the group. This plan sets out alternative pathways into the sector. This would not be possible without the successful collaboration of our local government officials, educators and industry.”

Richard Williams, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Screen, which was represented on the Digital Skills Industry Reference Group, said: “The creative and screen industries are delivering growth, employment and innovation. Through its three Creative Learning Centres, Northern Ireland Screen is continually investing in training and development to improve digital skills for young people and teachers across the curriculum.

“We remain strongly committed to the provision of programmes that target the marginalised and most disadvantaged schools and are delighted to support DfE’s Digital Skills Action Plan to provide more opportunities for young people, regardless of background or circumstances, to experience, learn and develop creative and digital skills.”

The Digital Skills Action Plan 2024-34 is available at: https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/digital-skills-action-plan-2024-2034