LIMERICK Institute of Technology (LIT) has been awarded almost €1.8 million in funding as part of a Government programme aimed at providing part-time, upskilling and reskilling opportunities in areas of growth in the region
These funded programmes are aimed at those currently in employment, those returning to education and unemployed applicants; and will provide between 90% and 100% funding support to upskill for future job prosperity. Level 6 Springboard programmes will be free to all successful applicants, while Level 7, 8 and 9 programmes will be 90% funded for employed applicants and 100% funded for unemployed applicants.
There will be up to 700 funded places on offer in LIT for September 2021.
Dean of Flexible and Work Based Learning and Director Industry Engagement, Seamus Hoyne, said, “The Department of Flexible Learning in LIT is delighted with the support secured under the Springboard+ initiative this year. Our programmes have been designed to respond to the needs of our region and we have worked closely with industry, enterprise and other stakeholders in preparing our portfolio. We are particularly delighted to have programmes funded across business, engineering, science, hospitality and construction and at different levels.
“Springboard+ programmes provide an ideal mechanism for those seeking to upskill or reskill and as the majority of our programmes are blended or online, they are much more accessible to a wider audience. Our Springboard+ programmes form part of a wide variety of programmes within the Department of Flexible Learning. We respond to the needs of the regions and society to ensure we facilitate sustainable economic development.”
Head of Flexible Learning at LIT, Dr Philip Hennessy, said, “LIT is a solutions-based institution with a reputation for working closely with industry in the region, supporting research and ensuring our students are work ready and meeting the skills needs of industry. If we are to continue to sustain high tech jobs and growth in our economy the workforce must continuously upskill. All of the courses provided at LIT under Springboard+ are very reflective of what is happening in the Mid West economy, and highlights the need for those both in employment and seeking employment to keep expanding and improving their skill set.”
In total €1,776,700 has been approved by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) as part of the Springboard+ initiative to deliver these part-time, flexible, upskilling programmes at LIT in September.
