The UK government has launched a Digital and Technologies Jobs Plan aimed at expanding entry-level employment opportunities and helping more young people access careers in the technology sector.

The plan brings together the government, technology companies and education providers to create clearer pathways into digital careers, including through apprenticeships, work experience and entry-level positions.

Under the plan, the government and industry aim to support 200,000 entry-level jobs over the next decade, with an ambition of 20,000 opportunities annually. Technology industry partners have also committed to providing more than 10,000 work-experience opportunities over three years.

The initiative is intended to help address the demand for digital skills across the UK economy while making technology careers more accessible to young people and individuals who lack previous industry experience.

The plan includes opportunities across areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and other digital technologies. It also highlights the role of industry partnerships, training programmes and workplace experience in preparing candidates for employment.

The government’s TechFirst programme is expected to support technology and AI learning among young people, with a target of reaching one million learners by 2028.

The initiative comes as the UK faces growing demand for digital and technology professionals. By expanding entry-level recruitment and work-based learning, the plan aims to help employers develop a skilled workforce while giving more people an opportunity to begin careers in the sector.

The announced figures represent targets and commitments rather than jobs already filled. The plan’s impact will depend on employer participation, the availability of suitable training and the number of opportunities that translate into sustained employment.