Representatives from NOCN Group joined parliamentarians, business leaders and education stakeholders this week at the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on India (Trade & Investment) dinner in Westminster, celebrating the growing relationship between the UK and India following the landmark Free Trade Agreement.

Business Development Manager Tyron Wain and Head of Business Development Laura Randall attended on behalf of NOCN Group, joining discussions on the opportunities the agreement presents for collaboration across trade, investment and skills development.

While trade agreements are often associated with goods and services, conversations throughout the evening highlighted the increasingly important role education and workforce development have to play in supporting long-term economic growth.

As industries continue to evolve, employers across both countries are looking for people with the right skills to meet changing workforce demands. Strong partnerships between education, industry and government will be essential in developing the talent needed to support innovation, productivity and international mobility.

These are conversations that closely align with NOCN Group's international work. With an established presence in India and partnerships that support vocational education and workforce development, the organisation is committed to helping learners develop skills that are recognised by employers and valued internationally.

The evening also provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships with policymakers, businesses and sector leaders, while exploring future opportunities to work together in support of skills development.

Commenting after the event, Tyron Wain said:

"It was a fantastic opportunity to meet with colleagues and stakeholders who share a genuine commitment to strengthening the relationship between the UK and India. There was a real recognition throughout the evening that education and skills have an important role to play alongside trade and investment, and we're excited to continue those conversations."

As the UK and India continue to strengthen their partnership, skills and vocational education are becoming an increasingly important part of the conversation. NOCN Group welcomes the opportunity to contribute to that dialogue, working with partners to support workforce capability, international collaboration and economic growth through skills.