Australian Computer Society president, Kumar Parakala, says the Federal Government’s announcement of a $15 million ICT apprenticeship program is a welcome initiative, but more needs to be done.
The program is expected to deliver up to 60 jobs in government agencies for newcomers to the industry.
“The ACS is delighted that the Federal Government is providing a wonderful example for the rest of the sector by focusing on developing ICT skills that are in demand,” Parakalas said.
Parakalas said the ACS is keen to see the outcome of the program.
“The APS Program is a positive step in the right direction, matching the skills being developed to those the government needs. We look forward to seeing more apprenticeships, both in the public and private sectors, being made available to graduates.”
However, according to the ACS president, there is more that can and must be done to stem the current ICT skills crisis.
“Greater attention needs to be focused on studying ICT at school level, as students who do not study ICT at school are less inclined to study ICT at university.
“The ACS also calls for increased resources to be devoted to forecasting skilled labour force requirements to assist a planning process that will ensure those skills are available when needed.”
