L-R: Michael Whitaker (NE Futures chair of governors), Stuart Walker (Intel), Julian Mennell (Kyocera), Ash Merchant (Fujitsu) and Dan Sydes, NE Futures (principal of NE Futures)
L-R: Michael Whitaker (NE Futures chair of governors), Stuart Walker (Intel), Julian Mennell (Kyocera), Ash Merchant (Fujitsu) and Dan Sydes (principal of NE Futures)

North East Futures partners with Japanese tech giant for new digital skills hub

A tie-up between Japanese tech giant Fujitsu and the newly opened North East Futures University Technical College (UTC) is boosting student skills in crucial digital sectors.

The two organisations collaborated to launch the Education Innovation Hub, a new high-tech learning suite based at NE Futures’ central Newcastle facility.

Equipped with new computing technology to develop students’ digital skills, the hub was created as part of the national Fujitsu Education Ambassador Programme and has the backing of global tech innovators Intel, Kyocera Document Solutions UK and Ruckus.

NE Futures UTC principal Dan Sydes said: “The Education Innovation Hub is a fantastic addition to our already exceptional facilities.

“It is part of an inspirational learning environment which students can access to develop their computing and other digital skills.”

He continued: “The hub will be open throughout the day, giving them access to high-tech facilities at all times, and it can also be used by our business partners.

“I am grateful to Fujitsu and all partner companies for their enthusiasm to open this hub, and to their commitment to education in the North East.”

NE Futures UTC, based in Newcastle’s Stephenson Quarter, delivers digital technology and health science education to young people aged 14 to 19.

Ash Merchant, Fujitsu’s director of education, said: “North East Futures UTC is passionate towards digital transformation and the role of digital in supporting its students – and we’re excited to be a part of that with the launch of the Innovation Hub.

“A recent survey by Fujitsu revealed that around a fifth of consumers believe that digital education should be part of the modern education curriculum, which points towards a real need to see education establishments focusing on the digital journey.”

Ash continued: “Educational institutions like North East Futures UTC will play a crucial role in making this happen – and Fujitsu, supported by our partners, is committed to supporting them in bringing their vision to life.”

Our Partners