Almost two-thirds of those who have lost their jobs as a result of the pandemic are under the age of 25. There is a risk that, without coordinated action, the negative economic impact of the pandemic will be long-lasting for this generation.
Additionally, in a nationwide poll of 1,000 16–18-year-olds by the Institute of Coding, more than half believe the digital workforce lacks diversity. 70% of youth surveyed think the sector is run entirely by those of white, British ethnicity, and over a third think there are unequal opportunities for women. One in ten admitted they are actively discouraged from pursuing digital education and jobs due to the lack of people that represent them.
While some of these opinions echo what many people in the industry may already feel, it is shocking that these are the perceptions of young people who have yet to set foot in the industry.
This London Tech Week event, powered by techUK, will look at how employment in the tech industry has changed for young people due to the pandemic, and what tech businesses can do to continue to encourage young people from all walks of life to enter the thriving tech sector.
Taking place during the Future of Work Summit, this session will consider how we can prepare young people for the future of work and ensure they are aware of the opportunities available to them.
Speakers include:
Kate Croucher
James Uffindell
Patrick Aylmer
Martyn Evans
