Business Innovation in STEM sectors by workforce upskilling

Initially planned on a non-credit bearing basis, the set of CPD events is expected to be built into credit bearing modules in the future. The project team aims to fit them into a program of flexible study modules, resulting in certificate, diploma and higher degrees attributable to measurable work based learning. This will help to embed new knowledge into the industry and inform curriculum developers of real industry needs, hence contributing to address the National STEM programme agenda in this sub-region.

Since project launch on 1^st September 2011, newly-recruited admin staff have carried out significant marketing and project promotion to SMEs.  At least 8 industry information sessions have been completed, alongside the development and completion of the two MERG courses (phase 1) and four short course sessions on Biomass Handling, Feeding and Storage.

The University of Greenwich (UoG) has demonstrated to the manufacturing community that HEIs are developing practical and useful programs to address the issues they face.  In particular, the short courses on biomass handling have been perceived as a window for new business opportunities by workforce upskilling about this relatively new subject.

Another short course entitled ‘Green Energy’ will be launched shortly.  The project team is also developing an action plan to assess market need for short course provision and flexible delivery mode for improved uptake.   Findings from the study, which will be shared internally and with external HEIs, are expected to improve the understanding of HEI to employer engagement, especially through workforce upskilling.