Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD, has today (January 1st) welcomed the establishment of the Munster Technological University.
Today marks the second technological university in the country, following the establishment of TU Dublin.
Speaking today, Minister Harris said: “The establishment of only the second technological university in the State, the first outside the capital, is another important milestone for higher education in Ireland and, in particular, for the South West.
“Today marks the establishment of a new institution of sufficient size, capacity and critical mass to deliver significant additional benefits to this region.
“From today, the new Munster Technological University will start its journey and drive access, excellence, and regional development. It will strengthen the links with businesses in the country and the community, all of which will greatly enrich and enhance the South West.
“The new TU will build on what is best in both of these Institutes of Technology, particularly in strengthened links between apprenticeships, industry and employers.
“The journey to get to this point has been long but the greatest prizes require the greatest efforts.
“This is the second step on an exciting journey. We will now progress further TUs in the South East, the Midlands and Mid-West, and the North West.
“Higher education is changing in Ireland and our TU agenda is one of the most exciting parts of the reform and modernising of the third level sector.”
Minister Harris also thanked the staff and students of both IT Tralee and Cork IT, the international advisory panel, Higher Education Authority, Qualifications and Quality Assurance Authority of Ireland and his Department.
President of Munster Technological University, Professor Maggie Cusack said of the opening; “ This is an auspicious day for the region with the formation of Munster Technological University that will benefit students, staff, and stakeholders for generations to come. The positive regional benefits will be paralleled with global impact from our research and innovation as we maximise the opportunities afforded MTU by the Irish Research Council and through Horizon Europe and the Green Deal.”