Northern Ireland's Further Education colleges have come together to jointly unveil a major 'green' training initiative to support job opportunities in the fast-growing renewable energy sector.

Supported by industry heavyweights NIE, Bombardier and B9 Energy and funded by the Department for Employment and Learning, the new 'Carbon Zero NI' programme develops green educational and training opportunities within the FE sector, ensuring Northern Ireland can compete in the multi-billion pound global 'clean and green' market.

Led by South West College, partners in the Carbon Zero NI programme include Belfast Metropolitan College, South Eastern Regional College, Southern Regional College, North West Regional College and Northern Regional College.

Speaking at the launch at South West College in Dungannon, Sir Reg Empey, Minister for Employment and Learning, said the programme will power Northern Ireland's bid to become a leader in the clean energy market:

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"The Carbon Zero NI programme will extend the regional and international reach of all six Northern Ireland Further Education Colleges," said the Minister.

"I will give every support to our colleges in developing partnerships with colleges and businesses across the globe. I have no doubt that future international market opportunities will be identified through the programme.

"This will be invaluable to local companies, who are already keen to exploit these opportunities. Above all, it will open new markets both here at home and abroad.

"This programme will provide local industry with R&D services, support, technology development, specialist training and advice in all areas of Sustainable Development.

"I am confident that the programme will position the sector as an engine for the development of innovative, cutting-edge sustainable technologies," he concluded.

Carbon Zero NI Programme Director Tom Mayers said the new programme will deliver hundreds of courses specially-designed to help businesses adapt to the emerging green economy and train students to tap into new green collar jobs.

"It's widely recognised that future economic growth lies in the development of sustainable, clean technologies that benefit the environment and support job creation. Carbon Zero NI allows FE colleges to take the lead in helping to equip students and businesses with the expertise and skills to profit from the green economy." he said.

South West College Director, Malachy McAleer, said Carbon Zero NI’s development of dedicated curricula would build on the successful activities already being carried out across the FE sector: "Colleges in Northern Ireland are working hard to assist the development of sustainable technologies and skills.

"By pooling expertise and experience from all the colleges across the province, Carbon Zero NI will ensure everyone has access to the best training and facilities."

(BMcC/GK)