AI and new technologies are changing the nature of the world of work, but the consequences are not evenly distributed, nor are they technologically predetermined.
While fears that AI may replace some areas of the workforce wholesale have yet not manifested, some experts are linking the adoption of AI and new digital technologies to difficulties in entry-level job markets and lack of opportunities for young people.
The Government’s National Youth Strategy launched in December, notes how technology both connects and isolates young people today, and recognises that “young people worry about their education and their career prospects, particularly in a world where jobs are changed by tech development and climate change.”
The strategy lands alongside the post-16 education and skills whitepaper, the youth guarantee scheme, and apprenticeship reforms with the Growth and Skills Levy, all aimed to equip young people with the skills and opportunities they need.
New technologies are not the only factor shaping job markets, but with nearly a million 16–24-year-olds not in education, employment, or training (NEET), and with warnings that entry-level job postings are at their lowest for many years, we must give serious consideration to the pathways available to young people now and in the future.
Outline Agenda
15.15 - 15.35 Introductions and opening addresses
Short addresses from:
Fiona Aldridge, CEO, Skills Federation & Skills England Board Member
Darius Norell, Radical Employability Lead, People and Their Brilliance
Ewan Bennie, Director of Communications and Influence, EY Foundation
David Hughes, CEO, Association of Colleges
15.35 - 16.00 Roundtable discussion - featuring first input from an alumna of the EY Foundation’s Youth Voice Forum
16.00 - 16.30 Expanded discussion with audience
Please note this is a hybrid event.
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