New study highlights the need for STEM graduates in the UK
A new report has argued that the UK needs to train at least 100,000 more science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) graduates if it is to remain competitive.
The report, titled ‘Jobs and Growth: the Importance of Engineering Skills to the UK Economy’, from the Royal Academy of Engineering has said that the increase is vital if the UK is to maintain its current industrial position.
The report argues that a new generation of STEM graduates is desperately needed as the UK is slipping down international league tables for innovation.
At the moment, the UK is producing around 23,000 engineers, however China is producing around 460,000.
Director of engineering and education at the Royal Academy of Engineering Professor Matthew Harrison highlighted the need for government action.
He said, “Engineering firms are crying out for engineers. They can't get the people they need. Although they have been very very vocal about the subject it has not translated into public policy yet.”
Professor Harrison went on to stress how important STEM graduates are to the future of the UK economy. He said, “All young people should have access to them as a means of social mobility and to strengthen the economy.”
In response, the government has claimed that it is looking in to working more closely with business into ways they can support growth in industry.
A spokesperson for the Department of Business, Innovation, and Skills said, “We have recently committed £3m to create up to 500 additional aeronautical engineers at masters level over the next three years, co-funded with industry.”
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