Drew Hendry welcomes Scottish Government's commitment to developing young people across Highlands
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Inverness and Nairn SNP MP Drew Hendry has welcomed reassurances from Scottish Government minister Graeme Dey about the priority given to young people in the development of the Highland region.
Following a recent discussion with the minister for higher and further education about the ongoing concerns about the lack of security around the Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) funding in the region, Mr Hendry expressed his gratitude for the minister's reassurances that the Scottish Government remains steadfastly committed to investing in the futures of young people across the region.
The talks between Mr Dey and Mr Hendry followed communications from Mr Hendry and regional leaders, highlighting the challenges faced by Developing Young Workforce Inverness and Central Highlands (DYWICH) after the recent announcement that its funding model was changed from a 12-month commitment to a six-month commitment.
During the discussion, Mr Dey highlighted the importance of the DYW scheme. He confirmed that the government would continue working closely with DYWICH to create a sustainable working model that enables young people to thrive long-term.
Mr Hendry said: "I am heartened by the minister's reassurances that the Scottish Government recognises the importance of the Developing Young Workforce programme in the Highlands and is committed to working with partners to ensure that our young people are given every opportunity to succeed.
"The Scottish Government has a long track record of investing in young people and has already confirmed that £4.2 billion will be spent on education and skills in Scotland in 2023/24, nearly £100 million more than last year.
"The Highland region has unique economic and workforce challenges, which I know the minister recognises, and he is keen to work with industry leaders to address.
"By placing young people at the heart of our development, we can create a vibrant, skilled workforce that will drive our regional economy and contribute to Scotland's overall economic health.
"As the MP for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey, I will continue to work with the Scottish Government and DYWICH to ensure that the region's young people have access to the opportunities they deserve."
