A NEW collaboration will bring a range of new economics education to workers across Britain to support organising and bargaining skills.

The General Federation of Trade Unions (GFTU) Educational Trust and the School of Oriental and African Studies (Soas) have partnered to deliver “cutting-edge work in the field of political economy,” making it available to workers at all levels of the trade union movement through new courses and educational materials.

These will support core functions of organising and bargaining through developing a clear understanding of the economic basis of society, the groups said.

GFTU general secretary Gawain Little said: “For far too long, economics education has been neglected by the trade union movement and this has weakened unions industrially and politically.

“Our new programme will provide something for staff and activists at all levels of the trade union movement, from trade union leaders shaping union strategy in a changing economy to workplace reps negotiating over pay and working conditions.”

Soas professor of economics Costas Lapavitsas said: “The UK is about to engage in a profound shift in economic policy, strongly emphasising industrial policy.

“Universities and trade unions will have the opportunity to play a creative role in the new environment.

“[This initiative] will help to train staff and activists aiming to make a positive contribution to the changing economy.

“The long-term implications of this initiative are profound.”

Mr Lapavitsas said the partnership will “contribute to more informed labour negotiations, better economic decision-making, and ultimately, a more equitable economic environment.”

“This will support wider economic stability and growth, reflecting the role of well-educated trade unions in advancing the material interests of their members,” he said.