Reflections on the Labour Party conference

In his leader's speech, Keir Starmer underlined both the scale of the challenge and the opportunity, setting out a vision of an economy where "every worker has the chance to adapt, learn and thrive". 

That vision ran through many of the discussions Ufi joined across the week. From debates on lifelong learning to the future of AI adoption, one theme was constant: skills are a core lever of economic renewal. 

We heard how demand for lifelong learning is strong and growing. Flexible and adaptable provision, backed by proper funding and regulation, will be critical. Employers and policymakers also grappled with the reality that digital and AI skills are evolving faster than frameworks or regulation can keep up. Working with our sector, we were able to highlight the needs of providers, employers and learners.

On our panel "AI, Growth and Skills: What does vocational technology mean for Labour's industrial strategy?", Ufi's CEO Rebecca Garrod-Waters and Director of Strategic Engagement Anthony Painter were joined by Robert Craig, COO at Skills Builder, Zoe Stern, Head of Community Affairs Europe at Google, and Anthony Impey, CEO at Be the Business.

We explored how AI will reshape the labour market, and how technology, paired with a better skills system, can help prepare everyone for the future. We discussed the huge potential dividend from AI adoption, but also the risks of leaving people behind. Confidence, not just competence, emerged as a key barrier. That's why Ufi has invested in testing, learning and deploying AI in real-world learning environments, ensuring innovations reach those furthest from opportunity.

The panel discussion also emphasised the importance of employers creating space for staff to experiment, and the need for systemic policy design that connects skills across government and industry. As our Rebecca put it: "AI skills don't neatly fit into the strict formal education system. We need lifelong, flexible learning that works for people throughout their working lives." 

What stood out across conference is how the conversation is shifting. Skills policy is no longer just an education issue, it is being talked about as central to economic growth, inclusion and resilience. At Ufi, we know that is exactly where it belongs. 

We leave Liverpool energised, ready to keep working with partners to make sure technology opens doors, builds confidence, and helps people thrive in the future economy.