Dr Gerard O'Hare
Managing Director of ParkerGreen International and Chair of GAP
"GAP provides graduates with highly specific work experience for up to 26 weeks. It involves employers from a variety of sectors and industries across the province supporting young graduates during the economic downturn. We cannot afford to lose the next generation of employees. GAP provides a real opportunity, with mutual benefits, for employer and graduate."
Brian Ambrose
Chairman of the CBI in Northern Ireland
“Recent news reports have highlighted the bleak situation that many graduates are facing. Graduates must ensure that they are adding to their CVs despite the recession and differentiating themselves from their counterparts. The new graduate programme, GAP, allows graduates to gain the experience necessary to help kick start their careers and their employability skills whilst providing companies with an opportunity to benefit from the skills that graduates can bring to their business.”
Joanne Stuart
Chairman of the Institute of Directors Northern Ireland
“From the recession has emerged a great opportunity for Northern Ireland graduates and businesses in the form of GAP. Businesses will benefit from the fresh enthusiasm that graduates can bring to work placements and graduates will enhance their employability and gain valuable experience. It is a win-win in a time when there have been so many losses”
Judith Harvey
Head of Learning and Development, W5
"It is imperative that our young graduates have access to support and relevant work experience after graduation as these are our brightest young minds and they will be vital for the future economy of Northern Ireland."