The University of Sunderland secures over £1m funding to upskill local workforce

The University of Sunderland has secured a funding boost of over £1m to continue its skills partnership programme for another year. 

The Sunderland Skills and Inclusion Programme (SSIP), launched in September 2024, will deliver £1,188,252 of funded training aimed at upskilling organisations and employees in the city.

More than 100 fully funded courses are being offered, working with a consortium of training partners to support sectors including manufacturing, finance, esports, education and digital skills.

Roberta Redecke (pictured), marketing and events manager at Sunderland BIDs, completed a continuing professional development (CPD) course in strategic leadership at the university, funded through SSIP. 

Redecke said: “The course has influenced how I approach my role. It’s helped me take a more strategic view when planning campaigns and events, making sure they align with bigger goals and deliver real value to the city centre, the seafront and our stakeholders. 

“I’m more confident in my decision-making and better equipped to lead my team and collaborate with partners.

“It has been a great way for me to build on my skills – especially in strategic leadership and stakeholder management, which are so important in my role.”

Redecke added: “It’s helped me take a step back and think more strategically about the bigger picture, while still being able to apply what I’ve learned directly at work.”