IT in schools: Government must try harder

More than half of chief executives believe the next government should make IT compulsory in schools, and do more to generate excitement about a career in IT.

Business leaders also want MPs to set a better example, and publicly demonstrate the importance of IT as a business tool, according to qualitative research conducted by IT executive coach Monica Seeley.

"The focus on getting young people switched on to IT reflects leaders' awareness that IT will fuel business growth and development, whatever career you decide to choose," said Seeley.

"Using IT has to be second nature to all school-leavers if we are to become a leading centre of ecommerce."

The study asked chief executives and board directors of 15 of the UK's largest companies for their manifestos for IT. More than half said the government should make IT a mandatory subject in schools, alongside English and Maths.

"Learning to use the keyboard properly, rather than just hunting and pecking for the keys, is the single biggest favour you can do for yourself," said Seeley.

"Many of the chief executives said that MPs should be using IT themselves to push up usage and familiarity throughout the country," Seeley added.

"Many still think using IT is getting their constituency secretary to print out their emails."