Local graduates are invited to participate in a survey about their career paths as the Island looks to bolster its economy by retaining more home-grown talent.
The survey, launched today, will assist the Isle of Man Government as it seeks to attract more well-qualified young people into the Island’s workforce, with the resulting economic benefits.
Each year, around 400 local young people finish degree or equivalent higher education courses at University College Isle of Man (UCM) and institutions off the Island.
The 2016 Census revealed larger than expected numbers of recent graduates live and work off-Island, something the Government wishes to redress.
Graham Cregeen MHK, Minister for Education and Children, said:
‘We invest a significant sum in supporting young people through higher education and hopefully this is the gateway to long and successful careers for them.
‘The Census revealed a larger than expected number of people in their 20s are leaving the Island and understanding why is a priority for us.
‘It has been 13 years since we researched students’ pathways after graduation, so we invite those who have graduated since 2013, and those who end their studies this summer, to share their views with us.
‘The Island’s economy is more diverse than ever, with many sectors seeking to employ talented home-grown graduates.
‘The survey, being conducted by UCM, is the first step in identifying how we can attract back graduates to form a key part of our workforce, an aim of our Programme for Government.’
Existing graduates are asked where they live, what job they do, what factors influenced those decisions, whether they plan to return to the Island and what incentives would cause them to consider a move home. See the survey
This summer’s graduates are asked what they plan after qualifying and whether financial or other incentives would encourage them to remain in/return to the Island. See the survey
The survey will also be on University College Isle of Man and Employed
Students who have received Government funding will receive an invitation to take part in the survey but it is open to all recent graduates, whether or not supported through their studies.
Students are not compelled to leave a name or email address but it’s hoped some will leave details and agree to be contacted if further research is conducted.
The survey closes on 30 June.
UCM runs 15 degree and equivalent courses, including postgraduate programmes and an MBA, offering students the chance to gain qualifications without the cost of leaving home.
UCM says its graduates are proving highly employable, with 91% gaining relevant employment at or before graduation.
Gail Corrin, Higher Education Manager, said:
‘Our students build relationships with potential employers as a result of the close and collaborative initiatives between UCM and business and these prove beneficial when seeking positions.’
She said:
‘UCM also offers work-based masters-level study for graduates, an option that is proving increasingly popular for UK-based graduates wanting to return to the Island.’
