Boosting UK Productivity: Safaraz Ali’s Contribution to The Open University’s “Powering Up Productivity” Report
Boosting UK Productivity: Safaraz Ali’s Contribution to The Open University’s “Powering Up Productivity” Report
Productivity is one of the UK’s most important economic goals, and achieving it requires fresh, forward-thinking approaches. The Open University’s new report, Powering Up Productivity, addresses this need head-on, presenting strategies to tackle productivity challenges by investing in skills, diversity, and inclusivity. Among those contributing insights to this crucial report is Safaraz Ali, Co-Founder & CEO of Pathway Group, Entrepreneur in Residence at The Open University, and a seasoned advocate for social mobility and inclusive growth.
Safaraz’s background in skills and employability, especially within the West Midlands, gives him a unique perspective on how productivity can be enhanced by bridging skills gaps and valuing diverse talent. With decades of experience in social mobility, diversity, and skills development, Safaraz’s contribution to Powering Up Productivity highlights practical ways the UK can harness its talent and foster meaningful, sustainable change.
Why Skills, Diversity, and Inclusion Are Vital to Boosting Productivity
The report makes a powerful case: investing in people is foundational for increasing productivity. Safaraz has long emphasised that the UK’s talent is abundant, but tapping into it requires focusing on skills development and inclusive workplace environments. Apprenticeships, for instance, play a crucial role in this vision.
Apprenticeships often face misconceptions—they’re sometimes seen as limited to certain industries or viewed as a less desirable option than university degrees. However, as Safaraz highlights, apprenticeships span a wide range of fields, from business management and marketing to engineering and architecture. They also exist at various levels, including degree apprenticeships, which match the depth and rigor of undergraduate and master’s programs. This makes apprenticeships suitable for people of all ages, creating valuable career paths that directly contribute to an organisation’s productivity.
Apprenticeships: A Competitive Advantage for Employers
In Safaraz’s view, apprenticeships are more than just training programs—they’re a strategic asset for businesses. By investing in apprentices, companies can nurture talent that aligns closely with their culture, values, and unique goals. These programs are an opportunity for organisations to coach individuals in ways that create a loyal, capable workforce. When employers offer apprenticeships, they’re demonstrating a commitment to growth and community—a move that builds trust with employees, customers, and suppliers alike.
The Open University’s Business Barometer highlights that 86% of employers currently offering apprenticeships plan to maintain or increase their apprenticeship numbers over the next year. This widespread commitment reflects the crucial role of apprenticeships in meeting immediate skills needs and enhancing long-term productivity.
A New Vision for Productivity Growth
The insights shared in Powering Up Productivity represent a timely call to action for business leaders, educators, and policymakers. It’s time to redefine productivity with a people-focused approach that values culture, diversity, and capability. Safaraz’s contribution to this report underlines the importance of investing in individuals—a sustainable way to power up productivity and build resilience.
To explore the insights in Powering Up Productivity and learn more about how your organisation can benefit from investing in people, download the full report on The Open University Business School’s official website.
