Universities join forces to meet city skills demand

A quartet of universities have launched a scheme to improve graduate employment opportunities.

Birmingham City University, Aston University, University College Birmingham and the University of Birmingham are leading the Higher Level Skills Match Plus (HLSM) programme.

Officials say the scheme, funded by the Birmingham Enterprise Zone, will work with companies across the city to address higher-level skills demand.

The venture, which is open to all past students, follows previous HLSM and Graduate Re-Tune programmes, which worked with more than 700 SMEs and placed nearly 900 unemployed graduates into roles.

Harris Beider, Birmingham City University pro vice-chancellor engagement, enterprise and innovation, said: “If we want to continue supporting the growth of Birmingham, the city needs to remain accessible to the 38,000 graduates and final year students looking to join the workforce every year.

The HLSM Plus programme ensures local businesses are first in line to benefit from this talent pool.”

Key regional stakeholders on the project board include West Midlands Combined Authority, West Midlands Growth Company, Birmingham Metropolitan College, London School of Science and Technology and Solihull College and University Centre. 

Angie Robinson, Aston University head of student and employer engagement, added: “Navigating the complexities of multiple universities can be challenging for employers, often requiring substantial resources.

“Our objective with HLSM Plus is to enhance the employer experience by providing a single, efficient point of contact, thereby facilitating more effective and seamless access to a diverse and talented graduate workforce.”

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