Westminster launches programmes with Cognizant to help bridge the digital skills gap

As part of the initiative sponsored by Cognizant, 60 final-year Westminster undergraduates and recent graduates will be awarded a fully funded, means-tested bursary to enrol in either the Digital Marketing Strategy or Data Analytics and Business Intelligence short courses at the University. The courses will allow participants to develop critical digital competencies, increasing their employability and access to highly skilled jobs.

In addition to expert-led training, student participants will benefit from two group mentoring sessions with Cognizant colleagues, offering industry insights and networking opportunities for the students involved. The programme will conclude with a final celebration event, recognising the achievements of all participants.

Cognizant, one of the world’s leading information technology and professional services companies, is a member of the University’s Chancellor’s Circle, a group of organisations committed to significantly supporting its students. They have offered numerous career opportunities for students to date, including a careers insight day at Silverstone to break barriers to the tech and motorsport industries for students from underrepresented backgrounds.

Through this latest partnership, Cognizant continues its dedication to fostering digital literacy and inclusivity in the workforce, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds have the skills to thrive in the digital economy. This reinforces the University’s long-standing tradition of widening access to education and fostering innovation. It highlights Westminster and Cognizant’s commitment to breaking barriers, celebrating diversity and contributing to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.

Anita O’Connor, UK and Ireland Social Impact Lead at Cognizant, said: “At Cognizant, our global skilling initiative Synapse aims to equip one million individuals globally with the latest technology skills needed to thrive in work. We are proud to support Westminster’s Digital Upskilling Programme as it empowers students with essential digital competencies and helps drive innovation and inclusion in the workforce.”

Jordan Scammell, Head of Development and Fundraising at the University, said: “We are delighted to partner with Cognizant on the Westminster Digital Upskilling Programme, providing our students and recent graduates with essential digital skills to enhance their employability and career prospects. This support reinforces our shared commitment to widening access to essential digital skills and preparing graduates for the evolving job market. I am grateful to colleagues at Cognizant for their funding of the programme."

Luisa Guerra, Senior Manager for Short Courses at Westminster, said: “I am thrilled that we are collaborating with Cognizant to tailor two of our most popular short courses to support our students to upskill in important STEM areas. Thanks to Cognizant’s generous support, we are helping to bridge the digital skills gap and open doors to new career opportunities. This collaboration is a fantastic example of how we can work together to empower the next generation of digital talent.”

This partnership contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4: Quality Education, 10: Reduced Inequalities and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.

Find out more about short courses at the University of Westminster.

To find out how you or your organisation can collaborate with the University, contact Westminster’s Development Team.