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'Skills for Work' conference equips students with tools to succeed

26 March 2003

The second annual 'Skills for Work' conference in February 2003 gave more than 100 UCL students the opportunity to hear from successful professionals, attend skills workshops hosted by top graduate employers, take part in a panel discussion and network with UCL alumni.

UCL students gained practical skills at the ‘Skills for Work’ conference

The conference, organised jointly by UCL Careers Service, UCL Union and the UCL Alumni Network, covered a range of skills including interviews, teamwork, presentations, applications, assessment centres and CV workshops.

During the afternoon panel discussion, chaired by Dr Raj Persaud (Psychology 1983, Medical School 1986), students debated discrimination in the workplace with Mr Ivan Massow, entrepreneur and political activist, Michael White (History 1966), Political Editor of the Guardian, and Claire Fox, Director of the Institute of Ideas.

Former UCL student Mr Digby Jones (Laws 1977), Director General of the Confederation of British Industry, and Professor Michael Worton, UCL Vice Provost (Teaching & Learning), were the keynote speakers at the opening plenary, 'The Skills Agenda for UCL'.

Professor Worton highlighted UCL's dedication to skills development through the incorporation of transferable skills into every course, telling the students: "You couldn't be here at a better time. UCL is driving forward a new skills agenda for universities."

Mr Jones spoke about the growing demand within industry for graduates with practical knowledge: "Without the right skills, individuals will find life increasingly tough as the UK restructures itself into a value-added, skills-based economy. The responsibility of providing students with skills lies with the universities they have invested so much in."

To find out more about skills development and the UCL Alumni Network use the links below.


Links:
UCL Union
UCL Careers Service
UCL Keyskills
UCL Alumni Network