On 15 September, I had the privilege of being asked by the Prime Minister to serve as the Secretary of State for Education in Her Majesty’s Government. The reshuffle signals a new phase of our response to COVID, where we continue to take necessary measures, such as the booster jab programme, but can also begin to focus on a future where the virus is endemic, not pandemic.
It is the vaccine rollout, and the tireless work of our healthcare professionals, that has allowed us to concentrate on our levelling up agenda. However, it is vital that we do everything possible to prolong the protection vaccines offer. Therefore, the NHS are contacting people directly to arrange a booster jab, and I urge all those eligible to get their vaccine as soon as they can, so they have the strongest possible protection over the winter months.
As a Conservative, I believe passionately in aspiration as a driver of prosperity for the individual and for the country. But we need more than aspiration, we need to facilitate people’s ambitions and give them the tools to fulfil their potential, whether they are a 16-year-old wanting to learn a trade, or someone older who needs to reskill to adapt to a changing world. This means levelling up infrastructure, levelling up jobs, and, crucially, levelling up education.
A number of constituents have contacted me voicing concerns that the levelling up agenda will not benefit them, and that it will only benefit the young or people living in so-called ‘red wall seats’. I believe this Government has to deliver for everyone and I am proud of the steps being taken to improve outcomes for elderly people across the UK. Particularly welcome is a focus on tackling early-onset diseases, disability and avoidable mortality.
In my new role, on 23 September, I was very proud to announce the Government’s School Rebuilding Programme which will level up schools across the entire country. The 100 net-zero schools will help improve educational standards and support teachers in delivering the lessons which will prepare the next generation for work. I am so proud Stratford-on-Avon is host to some phenomenal educational facilities and will continue making the case for higher standards across the country, both as your Member of Parliament and in my new role as Secretary of State for Education.
Nadhim Zahawi
