Cognizant's Role as a Strategic Partner in the UK's TechFirst Initiative

Cognizant's Partnership with the UK Government in TechFirst Program

In a significant move to empower young individuals in technology, the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has appointed Cognizant as a strategic partner for its innovative TechFirst program. This initiative is designed to create pathways for aspiring tech professionals, focusing particularly on youth from diverse backgrounds who wish to enter the booming technology sector within the UK.

The TechFirst program, part of the UK AI Opportunities Action Plan, aims to bridge the skills gap in technology by providing tailored support to individuals at various stages of their educational and professional journeys. Whether they are young students just starting to explore technology or seasoned researchers and innovators, the program seeks to equip them with the essential skills and experiences required in today’s tech landscape.

Cognizant's Commitment

Over the next four years, Cognizant and DSIT will collaborate to further develop skills crucial for economic growth in the UK. The goal is to support over 4,000 graduates, researchers, and innovators, while ensuring that approximately one million secondary school students are reached through this endeavor.

As part of their commitment, Cognizant plans to provide 100 work placements specifically for undergraduate and master's students. These placements will align with the six frontier industries as outlined in the UK Government’s Digital Technology Sector Plan. The objective is to offer practical, hands-on experiences within the tech sector, laying a foundation for the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators.

Cognizant's previous experiences, especially its successful Synapse initiative, which has trained over one million people globally in advanced technology skills, will play a pivotal role in guiding this project. Furthermore, they aim to contribute 1,000 hours of voluntary mentorship, helping inspire and guide the younger generation within UK schools and colleges, ensuring a steady flow of talent into the growing tech ecosystem.

Voices from the Government and Industry

Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall emphasized the importance of such initiatives: “I am committed to creating a tech sector that is open to all – and that's why programmes like TechFirst are so important. From inspiring children in the classroom to supporting innovators in the tech firms of tomorrow, our TechFirst programme is all about creating great tech opportunities for people across the UK.”

Rohit Gupta, the UKI Managing Director at Cognizant, echoed her sentiment, stating, “As an AI Builder and long-time technology leader, we recognize that as technology accelerates, the talent required to harness this change is lagging behind. Our support for the Government's TechFirst initiative is aimed at developing the skills necessary for success in the evolving workforce. Our recent research indicates that AI is poised to disrupt 93% of jobs today, and structured support from both the tech sector and government is crucial to navigating this transformation.”

Cognizant's involvement in TechFirst also builds upon its status as a strategic partner in the UK Government's national AI Skills Boost initiative, with an ambitious goal of upskilling ten million UK workers by 2030, ensuring they are equipped with essential AI skills for future workplaces.

About Cognizant

Cognizant, listed on NASDAQ as CTSH, is a renowned technology services provider and AI Builder. Their mission is to bridge the gap between artificial intelligence investment and creating enterprise value by delivering comprehensive AI solutions. Their expertise in understanding unique industry contexts allows them to integrate innovative technology systems that enhance human potential, produce tangible returns, and keep enterprises ahead in an ever-changing business environment. For more information, visit Cognizant's website.