acevo

15.04.08 | A university for the third sector

A university is the solution for third sector, says Stephen Bubb

Today Stephen Bubb, CEO of acevo will announce a proposal for Government to develop a university for the third sector, to harness the talents of many talented graduates now considering the sector as a serious career option.

Speaking ahead of the ‘Primetimers’ event at which he will outline his argument, Stephen Bubb said,

‘As a professional sector, contributing significantly to the country’s economy, now is the time to develop a university for the third sector. Workforce in the sector equates to 1.5 million full time workers and 6 million full time equivalent, volunteers.

‘We are a major resource for the country, no longer at the margins. We need to invest in building on what already exists through research and training.

‘The profile of the sector and the policy context we are operating in makes it an increasingly attractive choice for graduates. We need to harness this talent, developing our skills base and leadership for the future. The alumni of this university would create an invaluable network of leaders.

‘Gordon Brown talks about increasing and improving the talent pool in our country. A university for the third sector would make a direct contribution to this vision.’

He went on to look at what other opportunities a university for the third sector would offer,

‘In depth and high quality research into the role of the third sector is essential. We need a university to lead this through its research degrees.’

Stephen Bubb will be speaking at the ‘Primetimers’ event being held in London Bridge on Monday 14 April.

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Editors notes:
• “PrimeTimers” is a membership based social enterprise created to help charities, voluntary and community groups grow and achieve their social aims through providing cost effective business inspired solutions.
• For more information visit www.primetimers.org.uk/colloquia
• acevo (Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisations) is the professional body representing charity and not-for-profit sector chief executives in the UK, with over 2000 members.
• The broad not-for-profit sector now employs the full-time equivalent of 1.5m staff, with a collective annual turnover of £46bn.
•  acevo is committed to improving third sector leadership skills worldwide.

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