Darin Edmunds, Micro Focus

Newbury, UK

Head of Education Services

Though this research shows unemployment among IT workers has grown, it is estimated that the UK technology sector still needs 140,000 entrants per year to sustain itself. A reduction in the number of IT graduates entering the industry will therefore be detrimental to any ambition the UK may have of becoming a world leader in technology.

It is the responsibility of government, businesses and academia to guarantee the long-term supply of IT skills is a priority, despite the recession. More importantly, students must be encouraged to study the IT skills required by business, such as the ability to maintain the core systems upon which most organisations will continue to rely for years to come. Given the correct encouragement and a strong skills base, the IT industry is well-positioned to lead Britain out of recession, generating wealth, prosperity and jobs for the future.