The future of the local economy depends on young people having the opportunity to study locally.
That was the message from the principal and chief executive of North West Regional College (NWRC), Leo Murphy as he issued an invitation for people to attend one of the Colleges five campuses during its week of open days.
Mr Murphy said the education landscape has changed dramatically over recent times with new and exciting career paths opening up for young people. The college principal, who oversees campuses in Derry/Londonderry, Springtown, Strabane, and Limavady (Main Street and Greystone), said he and his staff are committed to ensuring that learners are encouraged to stay local and study Further and Higher Education courses which are available on their doorstep.
He explained: ”The North West needs to retain its young people. The future of the local economy depends on young people having the opportunity to study locally.
“At NWRC we’ve focused our efforts on growing and developing the skills base in the local region and in doing so the potential for all of our young people and adults. Many of our courses are tailored directly to meet the skills shortage and delivered in consultation with industry.
“It’s important that we harness our home-grown talent, while guiding our people into careers that not only suit their own particular skills and gifts, but jobs that encourage creativity and which champion innovation.
“These are challenging times in the world of work and industry – decisions made by young people at this stage in their lives will shape the direction of their careers in the future!
He continued: “Vocational education is vital because it equips students with practical experience and technical skills in a specific field.
“Learning not only takes place in our college lecture theatres and classrooms, but while acquiring knowledge and skills in their chosen area, students also get to use these skills in the real world through work placements and live project-based learning activities.
“Vocational courses are not, and will never be, confined to the classroom. The type of education that our young people are looking for is changing, and we’ve changed with those needs.”
Visit NWRC for more information on the open days, taking place from February 25-29.
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