Ulster University collaborates with businesses across all sectors to provide work-based learning for its students, which equip them with the necessary skills to thrive in industry both locally and internationally.
The awards are designed to celebrate the key role played by employers in nurturing the next generation of skilled graduates. This year's winners include Liberty Information Technology, 4Beauty Group, South West College, Heritage Administration Services Limited, Medtronic and South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, Estates Department.
Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry attended the event to congratulate the winners. He said: "I would like to congratulate all the employers who are working in partnership with Ulster University to enhance the skills of our young people through work experience opportunities. Our highly-skilled graduates are a key driver of our economy, helping to grow indigenous companies and attract foreign direct investment to Northern Ireland."
Ulster University's Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alastair Adair added: "Through work experience placements the University is helping to bridge the gap between the classroom and workplace for our talented students. The companies we partner with also benefit by getting the opportunity to actively shape the next generation of business leaders who will ultimately drive future economic growth."
Category winners include:
- Placement employer of the year with over 50 employees: Liberty Information Technology
- Placement employer of the year with up to 50 employees: 4Beauty Group
- Placement employer of the year in the public sector: South West College
- New partnership placement employer of the year Employer: Heritage Administration Services Limited
- Placement employer of the year as nominated by a student: Medtronic
- Placement employer of the year as nominated by Ulster University staff: South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, Estates Department