Tech WM and the University of Birmingham forge partnership to enhance digital proficiency

The University of Birmingham, in collaboration with Birmingham Digital Futures (BDF) and Tech West Mids (TechWM), has formalised their commitment to addressing the digital skills gap prevalent in the West Midlands.

This agreement, signed during Birmingham Tech Week’s Digital Skills Symposium at the Exchange, marks a significant step in the partnership. BDF is set to become a founding patron of Tech WM, while Tech WM will establish itself as a strategic partner of Birmingham Digital Futures. This MoU solidifies the ongoing efforts of BDF, an initiative co-founded by the University of Birmingham, PwC, and Tech She Can in 2021.

“Formalising our partnership with Tech WM is an enormously positive move that echoes the collaborative ethos at the heart of BDF. We are particularly excited about the new opportunities this alliance will offer as they are undoubtedly the driving force behind our region’s expanding tech community,” said Victoria Pargetter-Garner (Associate Director of Business Engagement & Research Impact), who leads the BDF Innovation District for the University of Birmingham.”

At the start of the week, Birmingham Digital Futures and TechWM representatives, accompanied by recent graduates from digital skills development programs, engaged in a ministerial roundtable led by Paul Scully MP, who serves as the Minister for Tech and the Digital Economy. This discussion delved into the significance of public-private partnership models, emphasising the pivotal role played by BDF in fostering collaboration among academia, industry, and the government. Their collaborative efforts are instrumental in shaping digital talent and the future of work in the West Midlands.

Martin Ward, West Midlands Tech Commissioner, said: “This MoU is hugely significant for TechWM as it strives to build a world-class ecosystem that will boost our region’s digital capabilities and enable us to reap the associated economic benefits. Effective collaboration is a central tenet of this effort and I’m delighted to see TechWM partner with the University of Birmingham and Birmingham Digital Futures to unite towards the common goal of driving digital excellence across the West Midlands.”

In the foreseeable future, Birmingham Digital Futures (BDF) will take the helm in guiding Tech West Mids’ digital skills working group, while Tech WM will maintain its integral position as a strategic partner in BDF’s initiatives. This partnership leverages their respective expertise in creating groundbreaking skills programs, strengthening their united dedication to the region’s advancement.

Yiannis Maos MBE, Tech WM CEO, said: “As we embrace the future, it’s imperative that we address the pressing digital skills gap in the West Midlands. This partnership with Birmingham Digital Futures represents a pivotal step towards equipping our region with the talent and expertise needed to thrive. Together, we will empower our workforce, drive innovation, and secure a prosperous future for our businesses and communities.”

Under the terms of the MoU, the University will maintain its role as the host for Birmingham Tech Week’s Digital Skills Symposium. This one-day event, taking place at the largest regional tech festival in the country, serves as a convergence point for professionals involved in nurturing, hiring, and retaining digital talent within the region, all aimed at collectively addressing the digital skills gap.

On the agreement, the University of Birmingham’s Provost and Vice-Principal, Professor Stephen Jarvis said: “We are pleased to sign this MOU with Tech WM, which reflects our civic commitment to the city to support education and skills for the benefit of improving the lives of people in the city and the region’s economic growth.”