Esther McVey, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions in the United Kingdom, speaking about Careers in Politics and Public Service.
A section of the students at Harrison College learning about Careers in Politics and Public Service.
Create your destiny, students told
A combination of the right mix of initiatives can bring rich dividends.
That was the point made by Esther McVey, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions in the United Kingdom, who stated that the initiatives that were put in place in the UK significantly increased employment for young persons.
She was speaking recently at Harrison College about Careers in Politics and Public Service, an event facilitated by the Aron and Christina Truss Foundation. McVey indicated, “What we did to tackle youth unemployment, we implemented a host of initiatives and we managed to bring unemployment down and one of those key things that I felt was essential in the UK was work experience because we realised soft skills were lacking just having a work ethos, we set up sector-based work academies.”
She also told the students that the school experience is critical to having a solid base from which to achieve their goals and objectives. “Life is an amazing journey and along with getting good grades, take part in activities such as the debate club, theatre, sports, etc., and you will start to learn a bit more about yourself, such as ‘if I am a leader or a team player?’ and these are the things that will dictate what you want to do as you get older. It is important not to be around the wrong crowd. Growing up in Liverpool in the ’80s, unemployment had become very high, I thought I wanted to help people. Who would have imagined two years later I would become the Minister for Employment under David Cameron and now I’m back doing that job? But my life was crafted by my experience, education and friends I knew from school. You need a positive role model and to be in charge of your destiny.”
McVey reiterated, “Politics is tough for anyone and you have to have a reason why you want be there. There are ups and downs, but be dedicated to the people. There has only been two female Prime Ministers in the UK, but there has been over 70 male Prime Ministers. However, women have come a long way, but decide what you want to do and go for it.” (NB)