The turnaround in the fortune of the Harris Tweed industry has been a remarkable story. Just a decade ago, the iconic handwoven cloth, which has a history stretching back to the mid-19th century, was on the brink of disappearing forever with rapidly declining production and an ageing workforce. Now thanks to efforts to salvage the industry and endorsement by a range of celebrity names and high profile designers, the fabric is once again in high demand as a fashion favourite.
However if the future of Harris Tweed is to be secured, the next generation has to be encouraged into the industry. As the Sunday Herald reveals today, what was once seen as a tough uncertain job carried out by older generations in a draughty loom shed has become an industry seen to be offering career prospects in everything from weaving and designing to marketing.
Teaching pupils in the classroom about Harris Tweed is an ideal way to spark that interest early on and alert young people to the opportunities in the industry. It is particularly important in light of the long running concerns about a “youth drain” crisis on Scottish islands, with younger generations often leaving home to seek opportunities on the mainland and failing to return.
It is astounding that not so long ago, island schools taught so little about the world-famous industry on their doorstep. Scotland is a forward-looking, modern nation but it is important to preserve the nation’s culture and heritage. The efforts by the Harris Tweed industry to encourage young people to become involved are a welcome part of that.
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