2nd August 2001

Event Report

eGOs - Maximising Opportunities and overcoming constraints in ICT Skills Training and On-line Learning

A new sub-group of the Fareham Technology Forum focussed on ICT skills training and on-line learning - eGOs was launched at the Forum meeting on 2nd August 2001.

The group is intended to help enhance the relationship between training providers, technology employers and the community - a key foundation for the Council's e-Borough Strategy and Economic Development Strategy . eGOs will share best practice, maximise funding streams and help deliver people into local jobs and new skills.

Maybe you've had to compromise on a project because of other programmes already running in the area or would enjoy stronger, regular links with employers and other providers ? Hampshire & IOW Local Learning & Skills Council, who replaced the TEC, have a major part to play in co-ordinating and funding change. Sue Swan, their Workforce Development Director, revealed her teams' proposals, funds and projects for this sector and debated questions.

Representatives from our local technology businesses, as well as community groups were represented.

Details were given of the e-Borough Strategy, which looks to maximise the opportunities that the web and ICT can give the wider Fareham community - businesses and residents.

Under the umbrella of the Forum, the Group is intended to give momentum to the provision of ICT skills training and access to on-line learning resources in Fareham. The objective of the event is to identify ways in which a local group could add value to what is going on. At the moment the sector appears largely successful but :

• Lacks a strategic vision for Fareham
• Fails to maximise resources and funding
• A cohesive marketing plan is absent
• There is a constant pressure to produce paperwork

Our e-Borough Strategy looks to provide support, through the Group. The Community Strategy programme may also enable us to influence strategic decisions by taking a customer focus. It was therefore thought timely to introduce a group that brings together partners both public and private.