The Dublin Regional Skills Forum (DRSF) is part of a national network (9 Regional Skills Forum Managers) supported by the Department of Further and Higher Education Research Innovation and Science focused on fostering stronger links between enterprise and education/training providers.

The creation of the DRSF reflects the strong focus on the skills agenda as part of Government policies within the National Skills Strategy, which supports enhancing regional economic growth and increasing job opportunities.

The Forum provides an opportunity for employers and the education and training system to work together to meet the emerging regional skills needs.

This regional skill structures are contributing to better outcomes for learners, while supporting enterprise development and job creation by providing:

1. A single contact point in each region to providing 1to1 free advice help employers connect with the range of services and supports available across the education and training system.
2. More robust labour market information and analysis of employer needs to inform programme development.
3. Greater collaboration and utilisation of resources across the education and training system and enhancement of progression routes for learners.
4. A structure for employers to become more involved in promoting employment roles and opportunities for career progression in their sectors.

Since its inception in 2016, the forum continues to engage with a number of core sectors, (Tourism & Hospitality/ Retail / Construction/ Biopharma/ ICT/ Financial/ Logistics & Transport) in collaboration with key industry stakeholders, direct SME businesses and representative bodies.

Critical Skills and the opportunity to access upskilling and talent for all SME’s remains the biggest operational challenge in the current environment. A Skills Audit conducted for SME’s to identify critical skills with connections for provisions as an outcome.

Some key funded provisions noted: Springboard, Explore Digital, Sector traineeships and Apprenticeships, Skills to Advance and Skillnet funded offerings all supporting SME’s within the region.

A one stop shop where SME’s can be supported to navigate the full offerings of funded training across the entire educational system.

A Collaboration of Partners (Industry Chair Siobhan O’Shea – Director CPL) managed by Natasha Kinsella RSFM within this Dublin Regional Skills Forum includes:

Educational Providers:
City of Dublin Education and Training Board, Dublin Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board, Dublin City University, National College of Ireland, Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, TU Dublin, Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art Design and Technology, National College of Art and Design and Skillnet Ireland.

Working in partnership with other industry bodies including:
DSP, IDA-Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, National Disability Authority, IBEC, Local County Councils, Local Enterprise Offices, ISME and Dublin Chambers of Commerce.

To connect further with the Dublin region visit – https://connect.regionalskills.ie/dublin Or email [email protected]