With an innovative approach to business that focuses on results rather than rules Chris van der Kuyl, the Chairman of Tayforth Consulting Limited, is ideally placed to advise computer science educators on what businesses need from computer science graduates. This will form the basis of his address at the 12th Annual Conference on Innovation and Technology in Computer Science Education (ITiCSE).
A highly experienced Chief Executive and Non Executive Director Chris will draw from his own business knowledge in the technology, media and entertainment sectors to provide an insight in to what businesses look for from graduates.
"An intrinsic part of building a successful business is having committed employees," comments Chris. "I am a firm believer that traditional employment issues such as what people wear to work or the time at which they do their work are irrelevant; what I am interested in is people that can do the job that is required of them. In this industry the most important skills that recruits can have are communication and creativity.
"It is my belief that by fostering relationships between business and academic institutions we can ensure that graduates leave university with the necessary skills to make their mark on the business world."
Dr Janet Hughes, the Assistant Head of Learning and Teaching in the School of Computing at the University of Dundee, says "Chris is recognised as one of the UK's leading young entrepreneurs. In the past he has, at Gordon Brown's request, addressed the Labour party conference on enterprise and entrepreneurial agendas. He is also keen to encourage the next generation of business men and women. Chairman of Young Enterprise Scotland for seven years, he is also a member of The Smith Group, advising the Scottish Executive on education, and a member of the Entrepreneurial Exchange. All in all he is extremely well placed to provide computer science educators with an insight into what businesses require from new graduates."
ITiCSE is to take place between 25 and 27 June 2007 in Dundee. The three day conference is expected to attract up to 250 international delegates; enquiries have already been received from across the globe. The theme for ITiCSE 2007 includes accessibility of digital media and widening participation in higher education
More information about ITiCSE 2007 can be found at http://iticse2007.computing.dundee.ac.uk/
For more information about the Dundee & Angus Convention Bureau please visit http://www.angusanddundee.co.uk/convention or telephone 01382 527531.
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Picture Caption: Chris van der Kuyl is to be a keynote speaker at the 12th Annual Conference on Innovation and Technology in Computer Science Education (ITiCSE).
