Long-time workplace education provider, the Society of Dyers and Colourists (SDC) has today published its findings from its annual education opinion report. 114 professionals from 25 countries contributed to the survey during the period of April 2024.
73% of the highly knowledgeable sample agreed that their organisations’ saw the benefit to a well-educated workforce, while only 4.3% disagreed that formal on-the-job learning was beneficial.
Other key findings from the recent whitepaper report include:
72.9% of respondents agreed that their organisation sees the benefit to a well-educated workforce
45.6% agreed that they would perform better at work if their skills were backed up by more technical education
61.4% of those surveyed stated that their organisation allows staff time in their schedules to work towards professional qualifications
Andrew Filarowski, technical director at the SDC said: “There’s no denying that more opportunities need to be offered to coloration professionals worldwide. And the majority of those who responded to the survey were in full agreement that there’s more to be done to ensure companies don’t fall behind.
“Offering career pathways through education is a good route to encourage young people to join the industry, keep them motivated and develop the technical knowledge required for the future success and coloration. This was highlighted during the 2023 UK Coloration and Finishing Conference and can be applied globally.”
Adrian Grzesiczek, director of SWS dyehouse in Indonesia who was one of the 114 respondents in the survey also commented: “Workplace education should be viewed in the same light as investment in capital equipment through a cost versus benefit analysis. Experience itself is not enough, we need people who understand the chemistry and the processes and can think and formulate ideas and solutions.
“In an ever-changing environment the need to adapt and develop, and a sound technical education is paramount to that.”
While student numbers on the SDC online learning register remain steady, there is certainly scope for organisations who wish to stay at the forefront of the industry to invest in the technical attainment of their employees.
The SDC offers Foundation Textile Coloration Certificate and Textile Coloration Certificate (FTCC/TCC) and the honours degree equivalent Associateship of the SDC (ASDC) leading to Chartered Colourist (CCol) status, as well as a range of short courses, all detailed on the organisation’s Colour Network.
The Worshipful Company of Dyers offers help with funding for FTCC/TCC candidates to UK companies, covering up to 60% of fees through the Future Dyers’ Fund.
Earlier this year, the SDC also announced the launch of the Maurice Tordoff Bursary scheme to financially support organisations operating in the dyeing and finishing sector.
