Microsoft to tackle UK skills crisis

Microsoft has launched an initiative to encourage job seekers to choose a career in IT. Called Skills 2000, the scheme provides advice on training and recruitment.

Speaking at the launch, David Svendsen, chairman of Microsoft UK, said the skills shortage is a national priority, as 100,000 jobs vacancies remain open. "It's aimed really at getting people to understand that a career in IT is actually a fantastic opportunity. The Web site is full of information for any person, whether actually inside the industry today or not, to understand the opportunities," he said.

However, Svendsen admitted the site (http://www.microsoft.com/uk/shift/ ) is aimed at changing the industry's image problem which puts many graduates off an IT career. "The idea is to get a sense of the excitement and pivotal role that IT industry has for running governments, schools and businesses," he said.

Anne Russell, director of the IT National Training Organisation (ITNTO), agreed. "Undergraduates don't see it as 'cool'. But the Internet and the opportunities it brings are a challenge. The Internet helps the growth and demand for people with IT skills but it may also help with the image because it's close to the media, which is seen to be cool."