Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry has launched the first PwC Data Analytics Academy 2014 in conjunction with local professional services organisation PwC.
The programme aims to provide graduates with the skills and experience required to take up exciting new opportunities being created by PwC in data analytics, a key growth area in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry.
The Minister said: “The Academies are excellent examples of government interventions to enhance the skills of unemployed graduates whilst providing skills that employers have identified as a requirement for the future and our economy. It proves that Government and further education colleges can respond quickly to design a bespoke programme to fill the gap.”
The Academy has been designed by the Department for Employment and Learning, PwC and Belfast Metropolitan College under the Assured Skills initiative. Targeting degree graduates from any discipline, it will offer an intensive eight week training programme to 15 successful applicants. Successful participants will gain relevant industry training and skills and a potential offer of employment with PwC.
The Minister continued: “The results of the IT Academies style approach have been very positive in terms of up skilling and creating employment opportunities. Following on from this success, we expect similar results from this year’s PwC’s Data Analytics Academy, and I would encourage any unemployed graduate to consider a career in the vibrant and growing local ICT sector.”
David Quinn, a Partner in PwC in Northern Ireland, said: “PwC’s Data Analytics Academy represents a unique partnership with DEL and the Belfast Metropolitan College and is a fresh approach to recruiting and training the brightest young minds into our fast-growing business. PwC’s Data Analytics Academy will deliver a tailored approach to learning and development over the 8 week period and will ensure they have the necessary skills to enter the workplace with confidence in both themselves and their career potential.”
Applications to PwC's Data Analytics Academy will close on Wednesday 9th July 2014 at 4pm and the training programme for successful applicants will start at the beginning of September. The training will be delivered by the Belfast Metropolitan College.
Applications can now be submitted online at the Mindmill website
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