Landmark decision for further and higher education in Cork

It is a prominent week for Further and Higher Education in Cork as the Cork Education and Training Board proceeds to the next stage in developing a College of The Future (COTF), a Fine Gael TD has said.

Cork North Central TD, Deputy Colm Burke, hailed progress and welcomed the milestone developments for Cork, chosen as one of ten locations to develop a COTF.

Deputy Burke said, “This is a monumental day for Cork as we build on our third level system and digital learning facilities in the region.

“Cork has been at the fore when it comes to expanding and developing the technological sector. Due to a notable increase in our population, it was crucial that we stepped up to meet the demand. We have successfully enhanced our institutions and remain incredibly ambitious for our new college and for our region.”

The project involves Bishopstown campus, which will become a Digital FET centre and integrate digital teaching and learning facilities, remote teaching facilities, digital content and communications, and networking services.

A Youthreach facility will also built in Mallow, on the site of the existing Mallow College of Further Education.

Deputy Burke continued, “My Fine Gael colleague, Minister Simon Harris, has also announced that Munster Technological University will be upgraded and expanded under the Technological Sector Strategic Projects (TSSPF) Fund.

“MTU is being recognised as a pivotal project, one which will now move on to the preliminary business case. This proposal envisages additional teaching facilities in the areas of Business, Humanities, Engineering, Science, Health and Wellbeing, Tourism.

“As well as excelling digital learning, the FET college will be absolutely vital in attracting more students interested in undertaking an apprenticeship.

“I wish to thank Minister Harris for his primary role in supporting our region and delivering for our economic and societal needs. This endeavour will undoubtedly strengthen relationships and provides a myriad of opportunities for students who are at the heart of this development,” concluded Deputy Burke.