Industry experts and innovative entrepreneurs are working with student teachers to develop new skills used in the business world to develop the next generation of economic leaders.
A new programme - Agents of Change - has been developed by Innovation Factory and St Mary's University College, which aims to enhance existing approaches to teaching that embraces the entrepreneurial economy.
Innovation Factory Engagement Manager Shane Smith explained:
"Our classrooms are filled with young people with so much potential to go on to drive the Northern Ireland economy in the future. This programme gives the teachers of tomorrow new skills that will help their pupils reach their full potential and thrive by nurturing entrepreneurship and helping young people to become more creative and opportunity oriented."
Agents of Change focuses on the 10x Economy Strategy for Northern Ireland, set out by the Department for the Economy, which aims to accelerate economic growth and productivity by ten times the current rate.
Karen McGivern, Senior Lecturer in Business Studies said:
"The importance of our future educators extends beyond guiding students academically and preparing them for employment. We must build on the strengths of our education system and recognise that student teachers have a part to play in implementing the 10x delivery plan, by fostering entrepreneurial skills, creating an environment that encourages creativity and proactive thinking. This is essential for everyone, regardless of their chosen career path."
The new programme kicked off with an address by three leaders hoping to inspire the young people including Giulia ni Dhulchaointigh, Head of 10x Economic Vision, Department for the Economy NI; Clare Guinness, Chief Executive, Belfast Chamber of Trade & Commerce; and Lisa Toland, Senior Manager, Economy, Belfast City Council.
The four-week programme will equip student teachers with the skills and understanding to make a positive contribution to the growth and development of Northern Ireland by fostering economic growth and progress.
Agents of Change will include workshops by People Playbook, Catalyst and The Brave Lab, that support student teachers in becoming proactive and socially responsible educators who are committed to fostering economic growth and progress.
Shane Smith added:
"The Agents of Change project connects innovation and education to bring people from these two different worlds together to find new ways of challenging and motivating young people in a world where technology is advancing so incredibly quickly."
Innovation Factory is owned by Belfast City Council and operated on its behalf by Oxford Innovation Space. The £9.1m business hub was funded by Belfast City Council and Invest NI with support from the European Regional Development Fund. Agents of Change is the second collaboration between Innovation Factory and St Mary's. A Creative Design Thinking programme last year which developed the ideas on how to take children through projects that built curiosity and confidence to think creatively, then test, discuss and refine solutions.
Karen McGivern explained that St Mary's University College has fostered a fantastic relationship with the Innovation Factory, resulting in a collaborative effort to share innovative ideas and cultivate entrepreneurial skills that has been invaluable for both.
She said:
"This strong partnership with the Innovation Factory has allowed St Mary's students to be introduced to a wealth of innovative thinking and cutting-edge ideas from industry professionals. This exposure has not only broadened their knowledge but has also provided them with practical experience in applying these ideas to real-world problems. By leveraging the Innovation Factory's expertise and guidance, St Mary's University College has created a platform for students to thrive and grow as they develop their professional understanding and prepare to enter the classroom."