Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

Minister James Lawless met with Professor Maria Leptin, President of the European Research Council (ERC), during her visit to Ireland today. Professor Leptin delivered a keynote at the ERC Impact Forum, hosted by Research Ireland, where she highlighted the value of frontier research and Ireland’s strong track record in securing ERC funding. Under Horizon Europe, Ireland has secured 92 ERC grants worth €147 million, demonstrating the excellence of Irish research across disciplines. As ERC President, Professor Leptin continues to advocate for increased EU investment in research and innovation, with a focus on strengthening the ERC’s budget to support breakthrough science across Europe.

Minister James Lawless attended the launch of Google’s AI innovation report today “We know that AI adoption is just one of many challenges facing business today, but it’s also a generational opportunity. The potential for AI to transform our economy, improve services, and support a more competitive Ireland is immense” “As Minister, I believe our greatest asset is our talent, and that’s why the Government is investing heavily in technology, in skills, education, and the inclusive adoption of AI”

Logistics-related higher education enrolments have increased by 52% since 2019, highlighting the sector’s growing appeal. 170 companies now employ logistics apprentices, showcasing strong industry investment in developing future talent. Ireland’s logistics sector plays a crucial role in the economy, supporting €196 billion in exports annually and moving 47.5 million tonnes of goods through Irish ports in 2023. The sector is critical for the supply of goods throughout the country, across all sectors of the economy. This year’s Skills Week will highlight career pathways in green innovation, digital transformation, and supply chain management. Learn more about opportunities and career pathways at one of the events taking place during #LogisticsWeek Find out more 👉 https://lnkd.in/emS64xaG

Maynooth University welcomed Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research Innovation and Science James Lawless to campus for the official opening of the Maynooth University Arts Building following a €5.7 million refurbishment to modernise the iconic building while preserving its unique character. Minister Lawless, who met with staff and students on his visit to campus as well as viewing a new Research Ireland-funded mass spectrometer and other high-tech research equipment, cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony for the refurbished building, one of the main teaching centres on campus. Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Research Ireland https://lnkd.in/d36D7WbM

Applications for an additional 14 Tertiary Degrees have now opened, in courses such as Occupational Therapy, Social Care Practice and Intellectual Disability Nursing. “Students can now begin their journey on a degree course at a local further education institute and progress seamlessly to higher education, bypassing the traditional reliance on the CAO points system and reducing the cost of accessing higher education for learners.” More information on applications at: https://nto.ie Minister Lawless on Tertiary Degrees: https://lnkd.in/egTEa9eB National Tertiary Office

Minister James Lawless today launched a campaign by the Irish Universities Association, highlighting the vital role research plays in addressing societal challenges to shape a better Ireland. "Research and innovation are key pillars of Ireland’s development and future prosperity. Across the country, university researchers are delivering breakthroughs in healthcare, sustainability and technology. These breakthroughs represent real, tangible benefits for the people of Ireland and beyond.” For more information, visit iua.ie/betterireland

The Regional Skills Fora 2024 Insights report has been published. This report is a snapshot of the work carried out by the nine Regional Skills Fora (RSFs), which are key part of our national skills infrastructure. 🔗https://lnkd.in/epDQ9dg6

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, has announced a €17.7 million investment in nine research infrastructure projects through Research Ireland’s Research Infrastructure Programme. The awards will contribute to the advancement of high-quality and high-impact research activities across Ireland. To read more about the nine funded projects under this programme visit: https://lnkd.in/eU_dK4Te #ResearchIreland #IrishResearch Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science University of Limerick UL Research Gerard Dooly University College Dublin UCD Research Oliver Blacque Mathias Senge Trinity College Dublin Teagasc Stephen Butler Karsten Fleischer Dublin City University DCU Research Eoin Casey

Minister James Lawless visited the County Meath Chamber Apprenticeship Expo today where he spoke with learners, parents, jobseekers and providers. He highlighted how apprenticeships provide a fantastic opportunity to “earn and learn”, getting a qualification and practical experience while being paid. There are currently 77 different apprenticeship programmes, from the traditional craft apprenticeships like plumbing and electrical to cybersecurity, digital marketing and social work. #GenerationApprenticeship