Leading businessman Roland Rudd has launched a
campaign calling for greater recognition of the importance of
language skills to the UK’s economy and employment.
The Languages Work Pledge is an online
nationwide campaign, run by CILT the National Centre for Languages,
which encourages businesses and individuals to sign up and
highlight the benefits of language learning.
During the pilot period over 500 businesses
and individuals including HSBC, Arsenal football club and England
rugby international Jonny Wilkinson signed the pledge and it is
hoped that in launching the campaign, Roland Rudd, founder of
Finsbury, a leading global financial communications group, can
inspire further support.
Speaking from the launch event at The Convent
of Jesus and Mary, an outstanding language college in Crownhill
Road,Willesden, Mr Rudd said:
“British businesses will not remain
competitive unless we can communicate effectively and interact with
customers and partners around the world. The ability to speak a
foreign language enriches us as individuals and brings huge
commercial benefits to employers. We cannot afford to be
complacent, such skills are vital to the continued success of
British business and the United Kingdom’s influence on the world
stage.”
To sign the Pledge or find out more
information please visit the Languages Work
website.
Pictured: (L-R) Kemi Majekodunmi,
Aderike Adeniran, Clementina Cheke, Sonia McCarthy. Roland Rudd
standing at back.