Among the challenges facing Wales, the need to develop the skills required to ensure economic success, promote opportunities to meet the aspirations of young people and increase employability are among the most fundamental. Focussing on these issues allows us to begin to tackle some of the structural weaknesses of the Welsh economy such as low productivity, existing and potential future skills gaps and economic deprivation.
Tackling these challenges however, also requires a systemic approach which utilises all the assets and experience at our disposal including the wealth of smaller businesses across Wales.