Young individuals entering the workforce will receive additional support through a new collaboration involving the government, industry, and trade unions.
The Early Careers Jobs Alliance is a joint effort by government, employers, trade unions, and young people to assess the impact of AI on entry-level positions. Led 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 landscape of entry-level jobs and provide practical guidance to businesses on restructuring roles while ensuring opportunities for young individuals.
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. It will introduce an AI bootcamp program across England to offer a pathway to employment for at-risk young individuals who are not engaged in education or training, potentially preventing unemployment. Recent statistics show that over a million 16-24-year-olds in the UK are currently disconnected from education, employment, or training.
Liz Kendall, the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, emphasized the importance of fostering an AI future that benefits both businesses and workers. The rapidly changing work environment, driven by technological advancements, necessitates proactive measures to support young individuals during the transition to new job opportunities.
Pat McFadden, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, stressed the need to ensure that all young people have access to meaningful career prospects as the economy evolves and technology progresses. Through initiatives like the Youth Guarantee, efforts are being made to ensure that every young person has the chance to acquire skills in technology and AI, opening up opportunities in the technological revolution to all.
