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Higher education and business are natural allies, says OU director
THE OPEN University is looking to forge closer links with employers in a bid to develop the UK’s skills set, says its director of communications.
Speaking at employers organisation the CBI’s East of England Dinner, Lucian Hudson said that the Open University had the “winning formula” to bridge the rising skills gap.
He highlighted a new Higher Apprenticeship scheme the OU was running for international information technology sevices company CapGemini. “Developing employees' skill base through this model is a win for employers, it is a win for employees and it is a win for the economy,” Mr Hudson told his audience.
A total 70 per cent of OU students are in employment while they study. Mr Hudson praised the CBI’s commitment, led by director general John Cridland, to skills development.
“The economy can only benefit from stronger collaboration between business and the higher education sector,” Mr Hudson said.
“In an increasingly competitive world, we at the Open University believe higher education and business are natural allies. The Open University is open for business and open to business – wherever that business is.”
16-05-2012
