Author: Joanne Kilmartin

NW DEPTH will run for four years, with the first cohort of learners being recruited in September 2025, and will see an investment of nearly €10 million in digital skills in the North West region. An innovative portfolio of upskilling and reskilling training courses in digital and cybersecurity skills will be delivered to over 2,000 individuals.

This project – supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) – is an initiative of the well-established North West Tertiary Education Cluster (NWTEC).  NWTEC is a strategic alliance of all four publicly funded tertiary education providers in the North West City Region: Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Ulster University (UU), North West Regional College (NWRC) and Donegal Education and Training Board (Donegal ETB).

The overall objective of NW DEPTH is to develop a learner-centred Digital Skills framework that encourages individuals to progress along flexible but structured learning pathways. This framework will support participants in advancing up the relevant qualification framework, helping them to re-enter, remain or progress in their roles within the North West digital workforce.

NW DEPTH will encompass courses in Fundamental Digital Skills (400 participants), Intermediate Digital Skills (800 participants), and Advanced Digital Skills (800 participants):

Fundamental Digital Skills are characterised as skills that aim to equip individuals across all sectors with the ability to use digital technology effectively and safely in daily activities and entry-level jobs.

Intermediate Digital Skills are characterised as skills that sit at the overlap between FE and HE, blending practical application with more strategic understanding. These skills enable professionals to execute more specialised missions and adapt to rapidly changing technologies.

Advanced Digital Skills are characterised as the upper levels of the qualifications framework and are typically taught in the HE setting. This level emphasises innovating technologies, advanced problem- solving, and specialised knowledge pertinent to complex and dynamic environments.

Digital skills are your passport to the future, unlocking high demand careers and giving you the edge in a fast-moving job market.  This initiative will address a broad spectrum of digital skills for employment including Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Data Analytics, Software Engineering, FinTech, RegTech, and Advanced Manufacturing.

For further information please email info@mynwtec.com and additional information will be available via the NWTEC website www.mynwtec.com

 

The North West Tertiary Education Cluster (NWTEC) has launched a new one stop resource for career and learning progression.  The website will support lifelong learners, parents, teachers, career guidance counsellors and employers in the North West cross-border region, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions about their future.

The website was developed by the well-established North West Tertiary Education Cluster (NWTEC) a strategic alliance of the four publicly funded education institutions in the North West City Region – Atlantic Technological University, Ulster University, North West Regional College and Donegal Education and Training Board.  NWTEC aims to further drive the transformation of the North West to become an internationally significant learning region building on its existing strength in the knowledge economy. The partners will support this positive change, by providing a full range of educational services including advanced skills training, cutting-edge innovation supports for enterprise, and internationally recognised high-quality research.

Key features of the website include the breadth of partners’ programmes, pathways and progression routes for learners and inspiring case studies of students’ educational journeys in the region.

The website will be the main portal for information on the high-quality digital courses to be delivered by all four partners under the recently launched North West Digital Employment Pathways Training Hub (NW DEPTH).  This project – supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) – will run for four years. PEACEPLUS represents a funding partnership between the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive.  The first cohort of learners will be recruited for September 2025 where the nearly €10 million investment from PEACEPLUS will cover the fees of 2,000 individuals upskilling or reskilling via an innovative portfolio of digital skills courses.

Speaking about the website, Paul Hannigan, VP for Cross Border Engagement and Head of College at ATU Donegal said “the new website is about empowerment through communication, all partners in NWTEC are fully committed to ensuring that every learner feels understood, guided, and empowered throughout their tertiary education journey.”

For more information and to get inspired to take the next step in your tertiary education journey, please visit www.mynwtec.com

 

 

 

 

The official launch of the the North West Digital Employment Pathways Training Hub (NW DEPTH) initiative took place at the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) campus in Letterkenny today (29^th April).

This project – supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB)– will be led by Atlantic Technological University in partnership with Ulster University, North West Regional College, and Donegal Education and Training Board via their well-established strategic collaboration, the North West Tertiary Education Cluster (NWTEC).

NW DEPTH will run for four years, with the first cohort of learners being recruited for September 2025, and will see an investment of nearly €10 million in digital skills in the North West region. An innovative portfolio of upskilling and reskilling training courses in digital and cybersecurity skills will be delivered to over 2,000 individuals.

The overall objective of NW DEPTH is to develop a learner-centred Digital Skills framework that encourages individuals to progress along flexible but structured learning pathways. This framework will support participants in advancing up the relevant qualification framework, helping them to re-enter, remain or progress in their roles within the North West digital workforce. Additionally, a digital strategy will be developed to complement other major investment plans, such as the Derry and Strabane City Deal, ensuring a vibrant future digital ecosystem of international significance.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD said: “This is the first time that the EU PEACEPLUS has made a substantial allocation to addressing skills on a cross-border basis. Following my recent visit to Northern Ireland, it was clear that the appetite for institutions, North and South, to collaborate is huge.  Harnessing the collective expertise and resources in key skills areas including digital is key to positioning people on this island to respond to the demands of re-skilling and upskilling.”

Addressing those attending the launch, Minister of State Marian Harkin TD added: “I have always been acutely aware of the unique economic and social context of the North West, particularly as the nature of employment and industry changed.  The North West has now got a strong reputation in technology driven industry, including fintech.  This project hub builds on this reputation, but importantly is intended to ensure that people living in the North West are skilled to get jobs in these industries.  This will also strengthen regional balance.”

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said: “The NW DEPTH project will enable over 2,000 individuals to access targeted digital and cyber security training within the key regional area of the North West. By fostering collaboration between academia and industry, and focusing on this strategically important sector, the NW DEPTH project will play a vital role in reducing our skills gap and promoting regional balance.”

SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre said: “I would like to congratulate everyone involved on the launch of the NW DEPTH project.

“The Area Based Regional Skills Development Investment Area of the PEACEPLUS programme will address skills gaps, which will in turn result in increased productivity and employment and higher levels of cross-border labour mobility.

“Economic development in post-conflict regions is vital in underpinning peace. Investment in the economy, providing support for SMEs, research, and innovation in specific areas of need are among the key focus areas for this theme of the PEACEPLUS Programme.

“The NW DEPTH project represents more than just investment in education — it is an investment in the long-term peace and prosperity of our communities. Through its focus on inclusive training, cross-border collaboration, and regional empowerment, NW DEPTH is helping to create a society in which individuals are not only better skilled but more connected — to opportunity, to each other, and to a shared future.”

PEACEPLUS is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and represents a funding partnership between the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive.

The NWTEC partners recognise the strong support that this investment signifies for the North West, as well as the responsibility it confers on NWTEC to deliver the project’s transformative potential.

The project’s focus on digital skills, which are critical to this region’s development, reflects a region-centred approach. By tailoring programmes to meet the specific upskilling and reskilling needs of both individuals and enterprises, the initiative demonstrates a commitment to addressing the diverse educational requirements of the North West City Region. This approach will raise awareness of the importance of digital and cybersecurity skills for the region’s future economic growth. Furthermore, this region-focused strategy ensures that education and training offerings are relevant, accessible, and impactful, promoting greater engagement and participation from stakeholders across this cross-border region.

Leveraging the established networks and connections of the partner institutions – which have strong ties with local communities, enterprises, and policymakers – will enable effective collaboration and outreach. This will facilitate the adoption of digital literacy programmes by community groups and the uptake of targeted skills training for individuals in employment seeking to upskill or reskill in digital and cybersecurity fields, ensuring the project’s impact extends across the entire region.

The launch event included an engaging panel discussion moderated by Mr Paul Hannigan ATU’s Vice President for Cross-border Engagement. Panellists included Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU; Professor Malachy O’ Neill, Director for Regional Engagement, Mr Leo Murphy, Principal and Chief Executive of the North West Regional College; and Ms Anne McHugh, Chief Executive of Donegal Education and Training Board.

 

The Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council was in the United States this week where she was awarded an Honorary Doctoral degree.

Cllr Niamh Kennedy received the honour alongside the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr, from Worcester State University, near Boston.

The awards were in recognition of their outstanding contributions to civic leadership, community engagement, and cross-border collaboration as part of The North West Tertiary Education Cluster (NWTEC). The NWTEC is a strategic alliance comprising the four publicly funded tertiary education providers in the North West City Region – the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) , Ulster University (UU) , North West Regional College (NWRC)  and Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB).

The cluster was established to foster greater coherence and collaboration in the education and skills provision across the region and enhance the educational landscape and contribute to the economic and social development of the North West City Region.

Cllr. Niamh Kennedy said “I am deeply honoured to receive this prestigious recognition from Worcester State University. The honorary degree reflects not only my own personal commitment but also the collective efforts of our region in building stronger, more cohesive cross-border partnerships. This honour highlights the ongoing importance of collaboration between the North West Tertiary Education Cluster and the wider community. Together, we are fostering a more inclusive and prosperous future for our region. Worcester State University’s dedication to academic excellence and community engagement aligns closely with our values, and it’s a privilege to be acknowledged by such an esteemed institution.”

President of Worcester State University, Barry M. Maloneys said: “We are deeply honoured to recognise Mayor Barr and Cathaoirleach Kennedy with honorary degrees – Doctorates of Humane Letters, honoris causa, – and formally acknowledge their dedication to public service and their commitment to fostering positive relationships across borders align perfectly with the values of Worcester State University. Their work serves as an inspiration to our students and the wider community. Our university has a very long standing and positive working relationship with ATU, Ulster University and the wider education cluster and the honorary degrees awarded today further cement our commitment to fostering that connection.”

The special ceremony was led by the University President Barry M. Maloney. Members of the university community, local dignitaries, and invited guests were in attendance at the event which was part of the college’s annual academic achievement celebrations. During their visit to Boston, the two Mayors also attended a reception hosted by the University where they had the opportunity to engage with students.

Atlantic Technological University (ATU) and North West Regional College (NWRC) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) marking a significant step forward in cross-border educational collaboration.

The agreement, which builds upon existing ties and the work of the North West Tertiary Education Cluster (NWTEC), sets out a framework to enhance academic, research, and innovation cooperation across the North West City Region. It seeks to benefit students, staff, employers, and communities through greater integration, shared resources, and new learning opportunities.

The MoU commits both institutions to a range of joint objectives, including widening access to education, developing new programmes aligned to regional and all-island skills needs, improving student mobility, and enhancing staff development through shared research and training initiatives.

At the signing of the MOU, Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU, said:

“This partnership reflects our shared ambition to drive innovation, increase educational access, and build a more connected and prosperous North West. It’s a living example of the spirit of cooperation envisioned in the Good Friday Agreement, and a step towards a truly integrated tertiary education system on this island.”

CEO and Principal of NWRC, Leo Murphy added: “This MOU represents a bold and exciting step in strengthening our shared commitment to regional development and educational excellence. By deepening collaboration with ATU, we are creating real opportunities for learners, staff, and industry across the North West. Together, we can unlock the full potential of cross-border partnership to build a more inclusive, innovative, and future-ready region.”

The collaboration will encompass a broad range of disciplines, including science and engineering, business, media, early years education, tourism, apprenticeships, and access programmes. Both institutions have also committed to jointly identifying and addressing employers’ skill needs, fostering enterprise support, and contributing to regional development through community outreach.

Paul Hannigan, Head of College at ATU Donegal, said the partnership will deliver a greater impact in the region:

“This is about creating seamless pathways for learners and strengthening the regional ecosystem through shared vision and coordinated action. Our institutions are key anchors in the North West, and by working more closely together, we can deliver greater impact across education, innovation, and social development.”

The agreement also outlines plans for sharing infrastructure—such as libraries, labs, and equipment—and for regular review meetings and the appointment of liaison officers to drive forward implementation.

The MOU is part of ATU and NWRC’s work within NWTEC, a collaborative network that also includes Ulster University and Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB). Together, the partners aim to build a tertiary education system that meets the needs of the region’s learners, communities, and industries.

John and Pat Hume have been honoured by Ulster University with the Magee Campus Teaching Centre being renamed after the pair.

The moment was celebrated on Friday, with a special event held in the now John and Pat Hume Building, with guest speakers and a conversation held between the Chancellor of Ulster University, Dr. Colin Davidson, and the author of ‘The Persuader,’ a biography on John Hume, Stephen Walker.

In attendance were members of the Hume family, their friends and representatives of the SDLP, the political party Hume represented and helped found in August 1970.

His son and current chair of the John and Pat Hume Foundation, John Hume junior, was ‘emotional’ about the heartfelt tribute to his parents.

He said: “It was quite an emotional moment arriving here and seeing the signage up for the first time and seeing so many old friends and faces, family and extended family here. I would like to say thank you to the vice chancellor and the university for doing this, as it was a very special moment for all of us.

“I think it is all the more special as it was the John and Pat Hume building, as they were a team, a formidable team.

“Mum and Dad had a long association with Magee Campus; a lot of it forms part of our history, it is very well known, and it forms a huge part of our city and the north of the island of Ireland.”

Last year the Hume Foundation worked in conjunction with Ulster University and the European Parliament Liaison Office UK to commemorate the work done by both John and Pat in the peace process of Northern Ireland by hosting an exhibition (He Made Hope and History Rhyme) at the Magee Campus last year to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement and Nobel Peace Prize.

Anna Huth from the European Parliament Liaison Office UK said: “He was a European of the Year, Nobel Peace Prize winner, and a friend and family member to many of you, and for us at the European Parliament, he was a member for a quarter of a century, where he worked tirelessly to broker peace and reconciliation in his native land.

“He never tired of reminding us of his quote: ‘The Peace Process in Northern Ireland has been most heavily inspired by the example of this house (European Parliament) and that the European Union is the best example of conflict resolution in the history of the world; all the regions at war must study the way in which Europe was built’.

“John Hume was a strong voice in defending European values and democracy. His actions proved that working together, Europeans can overcome antagonism and build bridges towards a better future.

“We hope everyone who passes through this wonderful building will be inspired and proud of his example and bring his message across borders of European values, peace, and democracy will flourish.”

Throughout the conversation between Mr Walker and Dr Davidson, they spoke in high regard around the work of John Hume and what made him tick.

Witnessing the finer details and providing jovial stories about their previous experiences with the man or while working on art or books about him.

Their conversation then turned to the importance of Pat Hume and how her work in the background helped John thrive in public, with both wishing to help the community of Derry, as both a son and daughter of the city.

Vice Chancellor of Ulster University, Dr. Paul Bartholomew, spoke about the honour of naming the building on the campus after the husband and wife.

He said: “I am sure you will agree they are a poignant and fitting tribute to the outstanding achievements of both John and Pat.

“Having spent much of the last year reflecting on the Belfast Good Friday Agreement and looking to the future with our 25 at 25 leadership programme it is only right that we return to the architects of change, who were instrumental in bringing about the peaceful times that we live in and all the opportunities and potential they have created.

“John and Pat Hume were champions of peace in times of trouble and turmoil; moreover, they offered leadership for peaceful change. The key focus of the foundation now is to establish their legacy and with whom we are collaborating closely. The study of peace and conflict resolution continues to form a key part of the curriculum here at Ulster University.

“We offer a special word to Michael Canavan, a centenarian who for many years championed the cause of higher education in this city, working tirelessly with John and Pat and a great many others in that regard. It is our privilege to have you here today, and we thank you for your ongoing interest in what we are doing here.

“John Hume instilled in us that difference is the essence of humanity, and at Ulster University our values focus on inclusion, integrity, collaboration, and enhancing potential.

“As teachers, John and Pat Hume sought to inform and inspire the next generation; our commitment to people, place, and partnership seeks to do the same, preparing our future leaders of industry and innovation in healthcare and commerce.

“The kind of learning spaces, both formal and social, that you find here in the Hume building and our adjoining library are key enablers of the pedagogy process, and it is a fitting legacy to both Pat and John Hume.”

https://www.derrynow.com/news/local-news/1742191/ulster-university-s-teaching-centre-in-derry-named-after-john-and-pat-hume.html

A unique North-South collaboration between Atlantic Technological University (ATU) and University of Ulster (UU) has celebrated its 20th anniversary at a special event in the Mansion House, Dublin on 12 February. The Masters in Leadership and Innovation in the Public Sector, established in the wake of the Good Friday Agreement, is supported by government partners at the Office of An Taoiseach and at the Department of Finance, in Northern Ireland, and has over 250 graduates from its programme since its launch in 2005. The event in the Mansion House was attended by graduates of the programme and provided an opportunity for both universities and key institutional supporters to reflect on the achievements over the last 20 years.

Speaking at the event, ATU President Dr Orla Flynn praised the vision of those who established the programme; “By marking this milestone, we are taking time to reflect on the vision of those who established this unique programme, shortly after the Good Friday Agreement in 2003. We are delighted to be joined by so many past participants, as well as the academic teams who were involved in the formative years of the programme. In terms of impact, the programme has successfully graduated 250 participants from 60 departments and agencies across both jurisdictions, supporting civil and public servants to address shared challenges, while building cross-border relationships. I am also delighted to be joined by our partners in Ulster University, as we have a common mission to advance knowledge by providing teaching and learning of the highest standard to meet the needs of our region and beyond.”

Professor Paul Seawright, Deputy Vice Chancellor at Ulster University remarked:

“Programmes like this are successful because of the people who have created and delivered them and the academic staff who have the passion to drive and re-invent the programme year after year, keeping it up to date and industry relevant. At Ulster our strategy is based on People, Place and Partnership and this programme is the perfect embodiment of that, allowing graduates to lead transformation in the public sector using the knowledge they gain from the programme. It is a great example of how both institutions are working together to deliver for both the North West region, where we are committed to growth, and also wider – to addressing challenges faced on both sides of the border.”

In addition to academic learning, the programme provided the space and time for those in leadership roles to drive innovation and change within complex organisations, embedding a culture of transformation within their departments. Speakers at the event reflected on

significant challenges faced throughout their careers, from the economic crash to covid 19 pandemic. Speakers at the event credited the skills and toolkits developed during the programme, as the blueprint for empowering them to lead significant projects and teams through periods of change.

The event coincided with the induction of the twentieth cohort on the Masters programme. Graduates from the very first cohort attended and shared their experiences, recounting the impact the programme had on their career, the development of their professional network and the positive impact on the public sector reforms.

https://atlantictu.workvivo.com/news/198232

Funding for the North West Digital Employment Pathway Training Hub (NW DEPTH) initiative was included in a total of €46,064,915 of PEACEPLUS funding announced recently to improve equal access to inclusive and quality services in education, training and lifelong learning in Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland.

This project – supported by the PEACEPLUS Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) – will be led by Atlantic Technological University, in partnership with Ulster University, North West Regional College, and Donegal Education and Training Board via their well-established strategic collaboration, the North West Tertiary Education Cluster (NWTEC).

The Area Based Regional Skills Development Programme, through the PEACEPLUS Delivering Socio-Economic Regeneration and Transformation theme, will develop and upskill 10,000 people to engage on key growth sectors, which will boost economic growth and create a more balanced regional economy. The NW DEPTH proposal aims to deliver a digital skills framework targeting the North West City Region (County Donegal and the Derry City and Strabane District Council Area). The NW DEPTH project will develop and deliver a portfolio of upskilling and reskilling programmes to ensure 2,000+ people advance up the qualifications’ framework via digital and cybersecurity skills courses.

The NW DEPTH project will run for a four-year period and will see close to a €10 million investment in digital skills in the North West. A target of 2,000+ participants will have access to high-quality employment-focused digital and cybersecurity tertiary education programmes free of charge. To ensure a lasting legacy, the funding also includes provision for the development of a NW Digital Strategy aimed at supporting the growth of the many innovative digital enterprises operating in this cross-border region and improving the attractiveness of the region for the establishment of new smart enterprises.

PEACEPLUS is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and represents a funding partnership between the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive.

NWTEC partners recognise the strong support that this represents from the funders and the responsibility it confers on NWTEC to deliver on the transformative potential that this funding has in conjunction with other recent funding announcements, such as the Derry and Strabane Growth Deal.

Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU, stated that “securing PEACEPLUS funding for the NW DEPTH project will empower a significant number of individuals to thrive in an increasingly digital world of employment. It will not only enrich individual lives, but this funding will also strengthen regional industries by better facilitating innovation as well as providing support for economic growth. I want to congratulate those who worked on this bid and look forward to seeing successful outcomes being achieved in the years ahead.”

Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor at Ulster University said “Ulster University is delighted to be a key project partner on the North West Digital Employment Pathways Training Hub (NW DEPTH) initiative. This is a strategically important investment in the skills profile of the NW region and complements other major investment plans enabled by the Derry and Strabane City Deal and Shared Island funding. This project builds on existing collaboration and co-operation established through the North West Tertiary Education Cluster and this PEACEPLUS investment in digital skills is a further endorsement of the value placed on, and importance of, developing education and capacity to support economic and social development across the region. The overall objective of DEPTH is to develop a Digital Skills framework for individuals to support re-entering, remaining or progressing their role in the NW region workforce, which is particularly important as we work with partners across the region to expand Ulster University’s campus in Derry~Londonderry. We look forward to continuing to work with partners on the digital skills development, upskilling and reskilling provision in the region targeting 2000 participants across the four years of the project.”

SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre said: “This PEACEPLUS funding supports five area-based approaches, designed to address evidenced skills gaps, which will result in increased productivity and employment and higher levels of cross-border labour mobility. The programme and the joined-up approach will enable cross-community and cross-border collaboration between education and training-based collaborations that maximise the capacity of the programme area to address existing and emerging skills gaps, and opportunities for reskilling. Economic development in post-conflict regions is vital in underpinning peace. Investment in the economy, providing support for SMEs, research, and innovation in specific areas of need are among the key focus areas for the PEACEPLUS Delivering Socio-Economic Regeneration and Transformation theme.”

Leo Murphy, Principal and Chief Executive of the North West Regional College (NWRC) said: “We at NWRC are delighted to be involved as a partner on the NW DEPTH project. This is a validation of the excellent work of the North West Tertiary Education Cluster by building digital and cybersecurity skills sets within our NW region. The partnership with Mastercard allows the region to develop an enhanced presence on FinTech and cyber expertise at a tertiary skills level. This will allow us to build competitive advantage and lead to the potential for more inward investment and indigenous growth in this sector.”

Anne McHugh, Chief Executive of Donegal Education and Training Board expressed delight that the NWTEC will be providing this much needed digital skills training in the region. “Our cross-border region is unique and full of opportunities and promise. This funding will significantly raise the chances that its promise will be fulfilled as we continue to seek to provide opportunities which will allow the region to compete on an all-island basis. Donegal ETB plays an enormously important part in the skills development area within Co Donegal and the cross-border region and the PEACEPLUS funding will contribute to this ongoing work in a really positive way.”

Paul Hannigan, Head of College ATU Donegal and VP for Cross-border Engagement at ATU, noted: “NWTEC is a strong partnership, and through our industry engagement via the NWTEC Smart Industry Board together with our links to community groups, this consortium is committed and well placed to deliver on the full potential of this critically important PEACEPLUS support for the North West City Region.”

US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs, Joseph P Kennedy III has praised the work of ATU’s role in fostering cross-border collaboration and its significant contributions to the advancement of North-South cooperation, as envisioned in the Good Friday Agreement.  Atlantic Technological University (ATU) recently conferred an Honorary Doctorate on Joseph P. Kennedy III, at a ceremony in Letterkenny.

During the event, Mr Kennedy expressed his admiration for ATU’s commitment to strengthening ties between north and south through the North West Tertiary Education Cluster (NWTEC).

Mr Kennedy praised ATU’s North-South engagement as an example of the university’s leadership in addressing shared challenges across the island of Ireland, “Graduates of this university are given the tools to do something transformative – build bridges where there once were walls, and help shape the future not just of Donegal, but of this entire island. This is what ATU is about – using education as a force for unity and progress.” The NWTEC is a strategic alliance of all four publicly funded tertiary educational providers in the North West City Region: Atlantic Technological University, Ulster University, Donegal Education and Training Board, and North West Regional College. This deep partnership provides the full range of educational services including advanced skills training, cutting-edge innovation supports for enterprise, and internationally recognised high-quality research.

NWTEC, established via the North West Strategic Growth Partnership (NWSGP), is focused on supporting the development of the North West City Region which comprises County Donegal and the Derry City and Strabane District Council area.

The mission of NWTEC in collaboration with key stakeholders is to create a Shared North West; a connected, high performing region achieved through the pursuit of the clear opportunities available via Smart Growth, Sustainable Growth, and Inclusive Growth.

Paul Hannigan, Head of College at ATU Donegal, echoed Kennedy’s sentiments, adding; “ATU has long established links with the key stakeholders across both jurisdictions and ATU’s footprint encompasses most of the border region and is therefore pursuing several important elements of North South activity. The North South Engagement Centre will better coordinate and further strengthen the University’s role on the all-island agenda and will develop strategy to enhance cross-border student pathways and address skills shortage areas.”

The University has long-established links with key stakeholders across both jurisdictions and continues to be a driving force in building sustainable, inclusive growth for the region.