THE publication of A-level results in England, Wales and Northern Ireland highlights the low proportion of students studying Physics, Design and Technology and ICT, crucial engineering gateway subjects.
If we don’t reverse this trend thousands of young people are effectively closing the door on an exciting, creative career as engineers.
There continues to be huge demand for engineers so it is important that young people continue their studies into higher education. The country needs more people studying science and engineering subjects at university and taking up apprenticeships.
There is huge demand for engineers. The IET’s most recent Skills and Demand in Industry Report showed that 59 per cent of companies indicated concerns that shortage of engineers would be a threat to their business.
We are at risk of stifling economic growth if we do not encourage more students to study STEM subjects which are crucial to ensuring a healthy and balanced economy.
Paul Davies
Head of Policy
Institution of Engineering and Technology
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here