The Wheel Welcomes Representation on the National Skills Council

The Wheel is delighted to represent the Community and Voluntary Pillar on the newly constituted National Skills Council, announced today (10 July 2024) by the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Patrick O’Donovan, TD.

In recent years, the community and voluntary sector has undergone a transformative shift, becoming a cornerstone in the national strategy for skills development. With its unique capacity to reach diverse and often underserved populations, the sector has been instrumental in delivering tailored training programs that address local needs and foster inclusive growth.

The sector is a key player in the economy, supporting 321,000 jobs and responsible for over €32 billion in spending. Indeed, the significance of the sector, and its workforce, within the wider skills agenda, was recognised in the recent OECD review of the National Skills Strategy.
 
“As the landscape of national skills development continues to evolve, the community and voluntary sector workforce is playing an increasingly pivotal role in shaping and enhancing the skills architecture across the country. I am immensely proud to be representing the significant contributions and future potential of the sector in this critical area as a member of the National Skills Council”, said Ivan Cooper, CEO of The Wheel.
 

Key highlights of the community and voluntary sector’s role:

1. Innovative Training Programs: The sector is at the forefront of developing and implementing innovative training programs that are responsive to the dynamic needs of the workforce. These programs are designed to equip individuals with both traditional and emerging skills, ensuring they remain competitive in the labour market.
2. Accessibility and Inclusion: One of the sector’s greatest strengths is its ability to make education and training accessible to all, particularly marginalised and disadvantaged communities. By breaking down barriers to participation, the adult and community education provided by the sector is helping to create a more equitable and inclusive skills landscape.
3. Collaborative Partnerships: The sector has forged strong partnerships with government bodies, further and higher educational institutions, and private enterprises. These collaborations are crucial in aligning training initiatives with national skills priorities and ensuring that programs are effectively integrated into the broader skills framework.
4. Responsive to Local Needs: With a deep understanding of local contexts and challenges, organisations in the community and voluntary sector are uniquely positioned to deliver tailored training solutions that address specific community needs. This localised approach is essential for driving sustainable development and fostering community resilience and inclusion while furthering Ireland’s lifelong learning aspirations.
5. Future-Ready Skills: As the economy undergoes rapid technological advancements, the sector is playing a key role in preparing the workforce for the future. Through a focus on digital literacy, soft skills, and vocational training, the sector is ensuring that individuals are well-equipped to navigate the evolving job market.

"Recognising the critical role of the community and voluntary sector is essential for driving forward our collective goal of a skilled and adaptable workforce," said Mr Cooper, "By leveraging the sector’s unique strengths and fostering greater collaboration, we can build a more inclusive and resilient economy."