The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has kickstarted a major 2026 initiative to boost the UK workforce by appointing a dedicated skills policy expert. This move comes after responsibility for adult education, training, and careers was formally transferred from the Department for Education to the DWP.
Strategic Appointment to Unlock Opportunities
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions has recruited Praful Nargund as a new expert adviser. His core mission is to help unlock national opportunities by focusing on adult skills policy in England, with the ultimate goal of driving economic growth. The part-time, unpaid role began in January 2026 and is set for an initial six-month period, with a formal option to extend beyond July 2026.
Nargund brings substantial experience to the position. He is the founder and director of the Good Growth Foundation, an inclusive economic policy think tank, and previously served on the Council of Skills Advisors, where he worked on preparing individuals for the demands of the modern labour market.
Focus on Policy and Economic Returns
The adviser will work closely with civil servants and special advisers to refine the policy framework underpinning the department’s skills agenda. A key priority is ensuring these policies attract significant economic investment and deliver high returns for the UK economy.
Nargund is tasked with strengthening vital relationships between the DWP, academics, economists, and other expert stakeholders in the adult education sector. He will also collaborate with other government departments that have a vested interest in developing adult skills and will provide regular updates to the Work and Pensions Secretary.
An Unpaid Role with High-Level Access
The postholder, who will work in the department for a minimum of two days per week, is officially unpaid. To ensure the advice provided is informed and of the highest quality, Nargund will have access to confidential ministerial papers. This strategic placement of skills policy within the DWP is designed to better align training and education with labour market needs, directly supporting the government's wider economic objectives.
