Policy Submissions
Description
Inquiry on engineering: The Professional Engineering Community comments to the House of Commons Innovation, Universities and Skills Committee.
Abstract
The various schemes for inspiring young people and changing perceptions about engineering should be better coordinated and rationalised, with an important role for the Shape the Future initiative. In view of the significant power of the public sector, procurement has an important role to play in fostering new technologies in the UK. Recognising the strategic importance of engineering, the real cost of producing engineering graduates should be fully funded. STEM (science, engineering, technology and mathematics) course uptake should be incentivised by progressively writing off student debt for home students who follow careers which meet STEM skills shortages. As currently happens with science (through the Chief Scientist), appropriate recognition should also be given to engineering and technology in the policy making process.
Submission Details Submitted on 14 March 2008 to House of Commons Innovation, Universities and Skills Committee
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Keywords and Search Terms Engineering, Education, Skills shortages, Careers, Public perception of science, Innovation, Research and development, Government policies