Kezia Dugdale MSP became an apprentice for the day at Punjabi Junction, the social enterprise community café of Skih Sanjog, on Leith Walk earlier this week.
Ms Dugdale took part in a cookery class event with the training provider Xtra Mile who presented two of their Modern Apprentices with certificates to show they had completed training.
Organised by Skills Development Scotland, Apprentice for the Day highlights the commitment of businesses that invest in skills of their workforce, and the benefits of work-based learning to individuals. Scottish Apprenticeship Week highlights the benefits apprenticeships bring to individuals, businesses and the economy. This year’s theme is ‘Skills for the Future’, recognising the importance of investing in the workforce.
Kezia said: “It was a pleasure to get into the kitchen with the modern apprentices who had recently completed their certificates and had gained valuable skills for the future. I’m encouraged that so many businesses across Scotland have chosen to invest in the skills of their workforce by taking on apprentices.
“Apprenticeships are a great way into work, and can help people gain front-line and real-world experience. I urge more companies across Edinburgh to recognise the benefits of modern apprenticeships.
“Businesses need more support from the Scottish Government to deliver apprenticeships, and we need people in skilled work at all ages, not just young people, so that our workforce is equipped for the jobs of the future.”
Katie Hutton, Director of National Training Programmes, Skills Development Scotland, said: “Scottish Apprenticeships are increasingly becoming a vital means for industry to shape its workforce.
“More and more individuals are recognising the benefits of work-based learning, with opportunities to gain skills in careers for the future.
“Scottish Apprenticeship Week shines a light on the major contribution apprenticeships make across all business sectors and the difference they make to the lives of thousands of people across the country.”
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