OCN NI launches nine new qualifications across AI, construction, manufacturing and green skills
Open College Network Northern Ireland adds new Level 1 to Level 5 qualifications to support the region’s skills needs
Open College Network Northern Ireland (OCN NI) has launched nine new regulated qualifications, spanning artificial intelligence, construction, manufacturing and the green economy.
The new qualifications range from Level 1 to Level 5 and are available to deliver through OCN NI’s network of recognised centres across Northern Ireland. They have been developed to meet the needs of the Northern Ireland economy and its skills gap, giving learners new routes into further learning and employment.
Artificial intelligence
Four of the new qualifications focus on AI, forming a progression route from Level 3 to Level 5: the Level 3 Award in Transforming Business Processes using AI Agents, the Level 4 Certificate in AI for Business Leaders, the Level 4 Certificate in Generative AI- Concepts, Processes, and Applications, and the Level 5 Certificate in Generative AI Apps in the Cloud.
The qualifications are targeted at individuals who will be involved in decisions and / or implementation of AI within organisations or individuals who wish to gain employment in roles that require these skills and knowledge.
Construction
The Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Wet Trades aims to develop the knowledge, skills and competency of learners to work in brick work, plastering and tiling. It offers a pathway from the OCN NI Level 2 Diploma in Wet Trades and is also targeted at learners who wish to further develop their skills within employment in construction related areas.
Manufacturing
The Level 4 Award in Lean Manufacturing provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to understand and be able to use lean and problem-solving processes and techniques for complex organisational problems. It offers progression to the OCN NI Level 5 Diploma in Leading Quality Improvement.
Sustainability and the green economy
Three new qualifications at Levels 1 and 2 support the growing demand for green skills: the Level 1 Award in Introduction to Careers in the Green Economy, the Level 1 Award in Introduction to Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, and the Level 2 Award in Sustainable Workplace Practices.
The Level 1 Award in Introduction to Careers in the Green Economy provides learners with the knowledge and skills to be aware of the main sectors within the green economy, and the different job roles and careers opportunities available within the green economy.
The Level 1 Award in Introduction to Climate Change and Energy Efficiency is suitable for individuals preparing for careers in the green economy, involved in local climate action community groups, or seeking a foundation in renewable energy and sustainability.
The Level 2 Award in Sustainable Workplace Practices is targeted at individuals who have an interest or involvement in managing and promoting environmental sustainability.
North West Regional College (NWRC), which supported the development of the Level 2 Award in Sustainable Workplace Practices, said:
“From the perspective of NWRC, the Level 2 Award in Sustainable Workplace Practice provides an accessible introduction to sustainability and offers a valuable starting point, with the Level 2 qualification enabling learners to apply sustainability principles confidently in real workplace settings.”
Centres interested in delivering the new qualifications should contact OCN NI on 028 90 463 990 or [email protected]. Full details are available at ocnni.org.uk.