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Education Minister Paul Givan has announced his plans to increase the school or training leaving age in Northern Ireland to 18. Currently, young people can leave education at the age of 16. However, statistics show that 7 percent of young people between the ages of 16 and 24 are not in education, employment, or training.

Minister Givan emphasized the importance of extending the compulsory education age, stating that participation in education beyond the age of 16 directly impacts the life chances of young people. He highlighted that the current system, which allows young people to leave education at 16, is outdated and no longer aligns with the skills required for today’s job market.

By raising the school leaving age to 18, the Minister aims to provide all young people, especially the most vulnerable, with equal opportunities for education and a structured pathway for support and guidance. He called on all parties to support this initiative for the benefit of young people and the future of Northern Ireland.

In addition to raising the school leaving age, Minister Givan announced plans for a time-bound review of the curriculum and assessments to ensure that qualifications are valuable and easily understood by students, parents, and employers. The Independent Review of Education identified a funding gap of £155 million annually compared to England and Wales, as well as a £136 million shortfall for learners with educational needs.

Acknowledging the impact of underfunding on the education sector in recent years, the Minister stressed the importance of investing in education to secure a prosperous future for generations to come. He emphasized that education is essential for economic, social, and political development and called for greater investment in the sector.

Minister Givan concluded by stating that education is fundamental to society and plays a crucial role in shaping the future of children, communities, and the economy. He expressed his commitment to investing in a better future for children and young people in Northern Ireland.

The Education Minister is expected to provide more details on his plans to transform the education system in the coming weeks. Stay updated on the latest news by visiting the Belfast Live homepage and subscribing to the politics newsletter.