IN4 Group, an innovation leader in MediaCity, is launching a groundbreaking educational programme across secondary schools in Blackburn with Darwen. The initiative, in collaboration with local authorities and prestigious tech companies, aims to nurture young talent and provide unmatched opportunities within the digital technology sector.
The MEGA Hub programme will mentor over 600 pupils annually and provide scholarships to 50 students, ensuring they are well-prepared for future technology careers. This ambitious project will leverage significant investments and partnerships to create a robust educational foundation for the youth in the region.
A Vision for Future Tech Talent
The MEGA Hub is designed to cultivate a motivated, educated generation with ambition. By partnering with Blackburn with Darwen Council, IN4 Group aims to bridge the gap between education and industry, ensuring students are equipped with the skills needed for high-demand tech jobs.
The initiative builds on the success of IN4’s CyberFirst contracts with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). These programmes have already shown significant impact in the North West and West Midlands, setting a strong foundation for the MEGA Hubs.
Investment and Collaboration
More than £300,000 per year will be committed to the MEGA Hub by a coalition of partners, including IBM, Northrop Grumman, KPMG UK, QinetiQ, CGI, Roke, and BT. The investment is expected to grow in the coming years as the programme expands.
The project was unveiled by Councillor Phil Riley and Mo Isap, the CEO of IN4 Group. According to Isap, the programme aims to lift disadvantaged youth into ‘first-class’ opportunities, breaking cycles of deprivation and unlocking potential.
Programme Features and Structure
The MEGA Hub will offer a KS3 and KS4 technology enrichment programme, acting as an extension to school timetables. The curriculum includes elements from CyberFirst, Esports Academy, Play AI, and IBM Skills Build.
Students will have the opportunity to engage in hackathons, competitions, and entrepreneurship activities. This hands-on approach ensures they gain practical experience and insights into the tech industry.
Fifty scholarships will be awarded annually, focusing on 16-year-olds entering sixth form or Level 4 qualifications. These scholarships include a £1,000 bursary, industry placements, and certifications in fields like AI, cloud, and cybersecurity.
Strategic Impact on the Region
As part of the broader North West Cyber Corridor initiative, the MEGA Hub aligns with the government’s £5bn investment in the National Cyber Force in nearby Samlesbury. This strategic placement is set to create a highly skilled digital workforce.
The hub’s collaboration with local schools and businesses is crucial for its success. Schools like Tauheedul Islam Girls’ High School are already CyberFirst accredited, showing the programme’s immediate impact.
The MEGA Hub plans to extend this accreditation to other secondary schools, ensuring widespread access to advanced tech education across Blackburn with Darwen.
Leadership and Vision
Mo Isap, a prominent entrepreneur from Blackburn, emphasised the importance of giving back to the local community. He aims to guide students towards successful tech careers, transforming the region’s economic landscape.
At a CyberFirst celebration event, Isap highlighted how the MEGA Hub model could serve as a blueprint for other regions. This pioneering approach combines public and private sector efforts to co-invest in the future of young people.
Opportunities for Local Businesses
Local businesses are encouraged to collaborate with the MEGA Hub, providing additional resources and expertise. These partnerships are vital for creating an ecosystem that supports both education and industry needs.
Businesses can offer mentorship, internships, and possibly funding to further enhance the program’s offerings. This symbiotic relationship benefits both the students and the local economy.
Looking Forward
The MEGA Hub is set to launch soon, with the pilot programme already showing promising results. This initiative represents a significant step forward in preparing young people for careers in digital technology.
By investing in education and collaboration, the MEGA Hub aims to create a sustainable model for tech talent development in the North West.
Conclusion
The new programme has the potential to revolutionise tech education in Blackburn with Darwen, offering unparalleled opportunities to over 600 students annually. With the backing of significant investments and collaborative efforts, the MEGA Hub is poised to become a cornerstone of the region’s educational landscape.
The ambition and vision of IN4 Group, along with its partners, ensure that the MEGA Hub will not only meet the current demand for tech skills but also inspire the next generation of innovators.
The MEGA Hub programme is a promising initiative that aims to transform tech education in Blackburn with Darwen.
With robust investment and strategic partnerships, this programme will equip students with the skills needed for high-demand tech careers, benefiting the entire region.
