Wikipedia founder says merging creativity & technology key to success of sector in Norfolk
Jimmy Wales met with pupils and staff at Norwich University of Arts, to discuss how the city's tech sector can unlock jobs and investment
The founder of Wikipedia is telling us that merging creativity and technology is key to the future success of sector, here
Jimmy Wales- who was born in Alabama- met with pupils and staff at Norwich University of Arts, to discuss how the city's tech sector can unlock jobs and investment.
He was joined by Peter Kyle MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology and Alice Macdonald, Labour’s candidate for Norwich North.
"There's all kind of potential job and growth opportunities"
Jimmy told us Norfolk risks being left with old and inefficient industries- if new technology isn't fully embraced:
"The opportunities are limitless for young people. We are the beginning of an explosion of AI and robotics. But not only is it exciting for young people, it's also going to grow our economy".
"As part of the tech corridor here, there's all kind of potential job and growth opportunities. We have got a great university here. The world is open".
""The challenge is if we don't keep up with the times"
"We need people who are trained and understand this sort of work. We also need a good economic environment so that people can start new ventures and flourish".
"The challenge is if we don't keep up with the times. If we don't do that we will be left with old industries that will be less efficient".
"The opportunities are the opposite of that- it's being on the cutting edge and understanding that this new technology will give rise to new forms of growth and prosperity".
What's the Government said?
The Government say they're investing over ÂŁ1 billion into training over 4000 students in future technologies.
Science and Technology Secretary, Michelle Donelan, said:
Building on our reforms to the skills system will require work from each and every one of us – universities, schools, and businesses.
By doubling down on our investments in skills and backing British business, we can lay the foundations for an economy fit for the future - an economy that creates jobs and improves lives for communities up and down the country.
That is how we make our science and tech superpower mission a success.