Mayo Sligo Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB) and Sligo College of Further Education (SCFE) welcomed Minister Simon Harris, the Minister for Further & Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Science, to the Clarion Rd. campus to meet the inaugural class of tertiary degree students in General Nursing.
Minister Harris, known for his unwavering commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for all, took the time to engage with the students who are part of this groundbreaking initiative. The tertiary degree programme, developed in collaboration with Atlantic Technological University (ATU) and Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (ETB), Donegal ETB and Galway Roscommon ETB, has provided a unique pathway for students to pursue higher education without relying on the traditional Central Applications Office (CAO) points system.
During his visit, Minister Harris learned more about the diverse backgrounds and aspirations of these students. The Tertiary Access Route into Bachelor of Science (Honours) in General Nursing, has attracted individuals from various walks of life, all sharing a common goal of advancing their education and career prospects.
Minister Harris commended the students for their determination and emphasised the importance of widening access to higher education. He remarked,
“These students are trailblazers, pioneers of a new era in education. Their commitment to learning and their pursuit of knowledge serves as an inspiration to us all. The tertiary degree programs are a testament to our collective dedication to making education more accessible, removing barriers, and fostering a more inclusive society.”
The Minister’s visit also provided an opportunity to highlight the successful collaboration between ATU and MSLETB, Donegal ETB and Galway Roscommon ETB as they joined virtually to meet the Minister. Together, they have created innovative access routes that empower students and enable them to embark on their higher education journeys. Three other tertiary degree programmes have been developed, these include Bachelor of Science in Industrial Laboratory Science, Bachelor of Business (Honours) in Business, Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Sustainable Engineering Technologies.
