The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed the next step in the government's plan to tackle the NEET crisis and get people aged 16 to 21 off benefits. An AI summer bootcamp will kick off in the North West to prevent young people falling into unemployment, with up to 70 participants taking part in the pilot.
First-of-its-kind initiative targets NEET crisis
The "first of its kind initiative" brings together government with industry to give young people three weeks of AI and workplace skills training. It will impact people from Wigan, Blackburn, Blackpool and other North West towns. The pilot marks the next step in the government's bid to wrestle with the NEET crisis and get young, out-of-work people into jobs and off the DWP benefit register.
Mo Isap OBE, CEO of IN4 Group, said: "Too many young people are leaving school without a clear route into the opportunities AI is creating. If we’re serious about tackling youth unemployment, we have to rethink how young people move from education into work by creating pathways that connect talent with paid careers."
Industry partnerships and paid careers
Isap highlighted the importance of partnerships: "We’ve spent years building trusted partnerships with schools, local authorities and employers across the North West through our MEGA Hubs, and with the support of Government we now have the opportunity to demonstrate what’s possible. We have created a model that gives more young people a genuine route into high-value careers where AI skills are increasingly essential, while helping employers develop the talent they need for the future."
One 21-year-old told the government for its press release: "I have been exploring my next steps and looking for an opportunity that will allow me to build on my existing skills and develop a clearer career direction. I am particularly excited about this opportunity because it would allow me to deepen my knowledge and understanding of AI and technology, while gaining valuable practical experience. I hope it will help me progress towards paid employment and give me the opportunity to use my skills, creativity and enthusiasm to add real value to the industry."
Impact on young people and employers
The bootcamp is designed to provide practical experience and career direction, aiming to move participants towards paid employment. By connecting young people with employers, the initiative seeks to address both youth unemployment and the skills gap in AI-related fields. The pilot's outcomes will likely inform future government strategies on youth employment and benefits reduction.
