Tony commented on the changed context in which the network is discussing life-long learning: a changed economic perspective has put activation at the top of the political agenda and the education sector needs to develop a flexible supply response to labour-market opportunities. Enhanced links between business and education will be key to delivering learning and producing graduates that can contribute to economic growth areas. He described the IBEC Gradlink pilot scheme as an example of the type of programme that is required to keep graduates connected to employment opportunities. He suggested that government should introduce a scaled-up national graduate work placement scheme which is accredited and underpinned by the architecture of the NFQ.
 

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