Thank you, Dirprwy Lywydd. Over the past three years, we have seen a step change in the development of digital learning, on a scale that we could never have anticipated before the COVID-19 pandemic. I want to pay tribute to the dedication of our staff and leaders across the whole education sector, who worked to keep our learners engaged during a period of unprecedented challenge.

It's now time to look forward. We have an exciting opportunity to consider how teaching and learning can evolve to meet the changing needs of learners, the changing needs of the economy and the changing needs of society—these are ever-changing needs. And this is is about harnessing the potential of technology to enhance learning experiences and widen access to learning opportunities for people in Wales. Our new school curriculum will help to develop pupils’ digital competence, and I want to ensure that our young people can continue on that journey as they progress into post-16 learning. 

The further education sector is also at the forefront of our plans to equip learners of all ages with the skills they need to progress into meaningful, fulfilling work. Effective vocational learning means working with the tools and techniques used by modern industry, and our colleges have forged strong partnerships with employers to help fulfil the digital skills mission in the digital strategy for Wales.

In spring of last year, I set out my overall vision for the further education sector in Wales. I made it clear that I expect digital tools and technologies to become a natural part of a learner’s journey, as part of a modern, coherent approach to learning. We already have a strong foundation to help make this ambition a reality. Our strategic framework for digital learning, namely 'Digital 2030', which was published in 2019, was co-produced with the post-16 sector. We are using the vision, aims and objectives set out in 'Digital 2030' to guide investment and support for the sector.