In the rapidly evolving digital world, the West Midlands is at the forefront of a significant transformation. By raising awareness and engaging with businesses to address industry challenges, the University of Birmingham is providing comprehensive solutions accessible to employers to tackle the region’s digital skills shortage.
Bridging the digital skills divide
Birmingham Digital Futures (BDF)
We are working closely with our partners PwC and Tech She Can to deliver a unique and accessible digital skills initiative that supports young people across Birmingham and beyond.
This bid to foster digital inclusion enables local educational institutions and businesses to end digital illiteracy in the region through a comprehensive programme to develop digital skills alongside other skills. Birmingham Digital Futures will be a forum to convene organisations in the West Midlands who have a shared ambition to collaborate and collectively address this skills shortage, both now and in future.
Through the BDF project, we can improve social mobility, diversify the pool of regional talent, inspire and educate local communities about the possibilities of technology as a career, and connect with the business community to drive economic growth for the region.
Find out more about Birmingham Digital Futures
Birmingham is quickly becoming a major technology hub attracting businesses from across the country… we want to ensure those in under-represented groups have a pathway into the lucrative and fulfilling careers made possible by the growing technology sector.
Professor Nicola Wilkin, Director of Education, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences at University of Birmingham
Promoting inclusion in tech
Digital inclusion scholarships
Over the course of 3 years, we are providing 600 scholarships which will give under-represented groups the chance to break into digital careers. This 24-week part-time programme gives adult learners the option of studying remotely online or in-person at the University’s city centre facility The Exchange.
Birmingham Tech Week
With our focus on regional growth and championing innovation, the University of Birmingham works alongside Birmingham Tech to host an exciting programme of activity celebrating digital innovation and supporting organisations looking for research insight and to scale in the region.
Find out more about how we are promoting #GameChangingBusiness
Working with business at Birmingham 2022