Dialogic’s Michael Bowkis was invited to participate in the Software Industry Summit for the dBERR and DCMS analysis of the Creative Economy.

Eleven industry summits examined the issues and challenges facing the UK Creative Economy. Dialogic, consulting for Microsoft UK discussed the current poor state of pull through in the education system.

Bowkis explained that the focus on ICT skills, including throughout Key Stage 4 in England precludes deeper study into computing and software technology. We need to do more in secondary education to encourage students to study STEM subjects that industry needs. The GCSE in ICT is heavily focused on the acquisition of user skills and, whilst the UK needs to develop its skills base in ICT technology usage, it needs to provide opportunities and excitement in computer technology education if the UK is to lead the new global knowledge economies.