Skills, employability and inclusive economic growth are challenges that no single organisation can address alone. That spirit of collaboration was at the heart of the recent Integrated Regional Employability and Skills (IRES27+) event at Fife College’s Dunfermline City Campus, which brought together partners from across Edinburgh and South East Scotland to reflect on progress, share learning and shape the next phase of regional activity.
With 89 attendees representing around 40 organisations, the event demonstrated the scale of commitment across the region to creating a more responsive, inclusive and effective skills and employability system. Representatives from industry, the third sector, local authorities, colleges, universities and regional partnerships came together around a shared ambition: ensuring individuals and employers have access to the support, opportunities and skills needed to thrive.
A key focus of the event was reflecting on the impact of the Integrated Regional Employability and Skills programme to date, while looking ahead to the ambitions of IRES27+.
Attendees heard about the Programme Proposal, which has been shaped by contributions from more than 180 partners across the region. The event also explored findings from the independent critical review, providing valuable insights into what has been achieved so far and where future opportunities lie.
Discussions highlighted the importance of building on strong foundations while continuing to adapt to changing economic conditions, workforce demands and learner needs.
The event also showcased several important initiatives that are helping to strengthen the region’s skills ecosystem.
These included updates on the Housing, Construction & Infrastructure Skills Gateway (HCI Skills Gateway), which is helping to support workforce development within key sectors, and the introduction of the Building Equity, Accessibility and Connecting Opportunities Network (BEACON).
While each initiative has its own objectives, they share a common purpose: helping people access opportunities, supporting employers to meet skills needs and ensuring that economic growth can be both inclusive and sustainable.
One of the strongest messages from the day was the value of partnership working.
Throughout presentations and discussions, a clear theme emerged: meaningful change happens when organisations work together. IRES27+ demonstrates the value of strong relationships, effective networks and shared infrastructure, enabling partners to respond collectively to challenges and opportunities across the region.
This collaborative approach helps create clearer pathways into education, training and employment, supports progression into higher-skilled and better-paid work, and contributes to wider efforts to tackle poverty and inequality across the region.
The event benefited from contributions from an experienced panel of speakers, including Ken Gourlay, Rona Hunter, Dr David Waite, Professor Stuart McIntyre, Dr Kenneth Leitch and Kenny McAllister.
Their insights provided valuable perspectives on the economic, educational and workforce challenges facing the region, while reinforcing the importance of long-term collaboration, innovation and evidence-led decision-making.
The discussions highlighted that while challenges remain, there is significant potential to build a skills system that is better aligned to both employer needs and the aspirations of learners and communities.
Alongside strategic discussions, the event also provided an important reminder of why this work matters.
It was a pleasure to welcome six young people from the Fife Community Trade Hub, whose participation reflected the real-world impact that employability and skills programmes can have on individuals and communities.
The contribution of four Fife College students, who supported catering and front-of-house activities throughout the day, was equally valued. Their professionalism and enthusiasm showcased the talent being developed through the region’s education and training partnerships.
As IRES27+ moves forward, the event demonstrated that there is both momentum and commitment across the region to continue building a stronger skills and employability landscape.
The conversations throughout the day reinforced a shared belief that lasting impact comes from partnership, innovation and a collective focus on creating opportunities for people and communities.
The foundations are in place. The challenge now is to build on that progress and ensure that the region’s skills system continues to evolve in ways that benefit learners, employers and local economies alike.
Thank you to everyone who attended and continues to support IRES27+. Together, the partnership is helping to create a more connected, inclusive and opportunity-rich future for Edinburgh and South East Scotland.
Video highlights from the event will be shared soon, and those who would like to show their support for the next phase of this work are encouraged to sign the IRES27+ Pledge.
Link to the pitch deck here: IRES-27-Pitch.pdf
IRES27+ Website: IRES 27+ Continued Investment – Integrated Regional Employability & Skills (IRES)
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