To ask the Scottish Government whether it will provide an update on the developing the young workforce programme in the Cowdenbeath constituency. (S6O-03617)

The developing the young workforce programme plays a crucial role in the delivery of the Scottish Government’s commitment to ensuring that school leavers are supported to achieve their potential. DYW school co-ordinators and regional groups, including the Edinburgh and south-east Scotland DYW regional group, which covers Fife, take the lead on planning and delivering tailored events to meet the needs of young people and employers, and they facilitate connections with a range of delivery partners.

The Scottish Government remains committed to the DYW programme, with £12.9 million being invested in 2024-25 to fund regional groups and school co-ordinators.

The minister will, of course, be aware that Fife has been a trailblazer in facilitating vocational training for young people, with Lochgelly high school, the Purvis Group and Babcock, among others, having played a pivotal role over the years. What can be done to embed the developing the young workforce programme throughout Scotland to ensure that all that can be done is being done to provide young people with a route into skilled and well-paid jobs?

I absolutely share Annabelle Ewing’s high regard for the work of DYW, whether that be in her Cowdenbeath constituency, across Fife or elsewhere in Scotland. I also agree entirely that there is more to do to embed DYW into our offering for young people as they consider their future career paths.

The nature of DYW provision can vary from local authority area to local authority area. That is why my officials are working with DYW to see how we might enhance its standing.

I have been clear that I see DYW as an important pillar of the improved wider careers offering that we are developing as we seek to furnish our young people with the fullest possible understanding of the options that they have at their disposal.

Question 6 has been withdrawn.