Northern Ireland colleges and learning institutions have been urged to get involved in this year's Vocational Qualifications (VQ) Day, to support aspiring tradesmen and women.

Employment Minister Sir Reg Empey said the VQ Day event, held on 24 June 2009, is a UK-wide celebration of the achievement of the millions of people who gain a vocational qualification every year.

The programme highlights the many paths to success taken by learners of all ages and will be marked locally by an awards ceremony to be held in Belfast.

-- Advertisement --

Sir Reg said: "Vocational qualifications can set people up for life and it is most fitting that the hard work of colleges, students and employers in Northern Ireland is recognised nationally in this way.

"In the current economic climate, the importance of providing the workforce with skills that employers want cannot be overstated. Vocational qualifications are an excellent preparation for the world of work. They are also the best way to improve your skills or retrain when in employment."

The Minister added: "Thousands of people across Northern Ireland gain a Vocational Qualification each year and I appeal to our local colleges, training providers and awarding bodies to get involved in VQ Day to help celebrate these achievements."

(PR/JM)