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A Skills & Recruitment Survey of the Scottish technology sector carried out by Technology Scotland found that 70% of participants believed there is a disconnect between current university focus and industry requirements.
Almost two-thirds of those surveyed also said they were aware of a technology skills gap within their business.
Stephen Taylor, CEO of Technology Scotland
Many also said they had experienced at least one skills shortage vacancy in the last 12 months which has remained open for over 3 months.
Stephen Taylor, CEO of Technology Scotland, writes:
“Our survey shows that companies are retaining staff well in spite of current political uncertainties, however when it comes to filling current vacancies and sourcing graduates from Scottish universities, more work is needed to address challenges and avoid further disconnect.
“We therefore call on industry and academia to work with us to meet the increasing demand for home-grown talent and help secure this high-growth sector as one of Scotland’s leading capabilities”
However, the survey results show that the tech sector in Scotland remains active and resilient despite the skills challenges.
Almost 90% of participants believed the Scottish technology sector remains an attractive place to do business.
“With Scotland’s emerging & enabling sector currently supplying 10% of Scottish exports and employing some 15,000 employees in high-value roles, it is fantastic news for the sector and for the country that so many feel that Scotland is such an attractive location to do business,” said Taylor.
