Category: News

The new North South ESTEEM Project Aims to Transform Education and Skills Mobility Across Ireland.

This significant 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, in conjunction with the pre- eminent authority on cross-border policy and regulation, the Centre for Cross-border Cooperation (CCBC).

For decades, students and skilled workers on the island of Ireland have faced invisible borders—barriers created not by geography, but by systems. Different qualification frameworks, contrasting accreditation processes, and diverging regulations have made it difficult for learners and professionals to move freely between North and South. Now, a landmark initiative is set to change that.

The North South ESTEEM Project—short for Education, Skills & Training: Empowering Economic Mobility—is a bold new collaboration led by Atlantic Technological University (ATU), working alongside Ulster University, North West Regional College, and Donegal Education and Training Board, with policy expertise from the Centre for Cross-border Cooperation (CCBC). Running from April 2025 to June 2029, the project aims to create a seamless pathway for education and employment across the island.

At its heart, ESTEEM is about opportunity. It promises to give students clear, accessible information on cross-border study options and to tackle the systemic issues that have kept mobility levels low. For skilled workers, it will address accreditation gaps and propose reforms to licensing and regulation, making it easier to work across jurisdictions. Brexit and the Windsor Framework have added urgency to this work, as further divergence in rules could deepen existing challenges.

The project will deliver three interconnected strands: improving student mobility, boosting employment skills portability, and developing a research-based strategy to align education and skills systems with the needs of an all-island economy. Pilot studies will test practical solutions, while policy recommendations will aim to make mobility simpler and fairer.

Obstacles to mobility have long reduced the availability of talent, limited the return on public investment in education, and constrained economic growth. By breaking down these barriers, North South ESTEEM hopes to create a richer, more connected skills environment—one that empowers learners, strengthens industry, and drives prosperity across Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Paul Hannigan, VP for Cross Border Engagement at ATU acknowledging the funding from the SEUPB for this important initiative said, “The PEACEPLUS funding for the North South ESTEEM Project reflects a confidence in the North West Tertiary Education Cluster’s ability to tackle the real, practical challenges that have limited mobility across our border region. By breaking down barriers in education, skills, and workforce recognition, we’re not only creating new opportunities for learners and workers but laying the groundwork for greater economic prosperity and stronger cross-border collaboration.”

Professor Malachy Ó Néill, Director of Regional Engagement, Ulster University, said: “Ulster University is delighted to be a partner of the NS ESTEEM project. The significant investment from the PEACEPLUS Programme directly supports our Regional commitment in creating opportunities for all that will, in turn, help transform lives. Working alongside our Economic Policy Centre, we want to drive innovation, investment and access to opportunity on both sides of the border. We look forward to supporting the outputs of this project”

Leo Murphy, Principal & Chief Executive, North West Regional College (NWRC) added, “North West Regional College is delighted to welcome the success of the North South ESTEEM project, led by NWTEC and Atlantic Technological University with Ulster University, North West Regional College, Donegal ETB, and the Centre for Cross-Border Cooperation. This partnership will equip learners with clear, current information on tertiary and skills pathways and address the systemic barriers that have limited cross-border study and skilled workforce mobility. Grounded in robust research and practical measures, ESTEEM will enhance mobility and opportunity across our regional economy”

Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB) Chief Executive Anne McHugh said, “Donegal ETB’s mission is to offer education and training opportunities that helps students to achieve their full potential and to contribute to the social, cultural and economic life of their communities. As a border county, this initiative, with our North West Tertiary Education Cluster (NWTEC) partners, which aims to create a seamless pathway for education and employment across the island, supports us in this mission. We are hugely grateful to have PEACEPLUS funding this work and to be supported by the Centre for Cross Border Cooperation.”

The Director of the Centre for Cross Border Cooperation, Dr Anthony Soares, said: “The Centre is delighted to be involved in a project that will make a significant contribution to ensuring we grasp the opportunities that can be brought about through cross-border collaboration. By removing barriers to cross-border mobility and through sustained cross-border collaboration between the partners and stakeholders, the North South ESTEEM project will help the island of Ireland to grow and retain talent in support of a dynamic economy”.

SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre said: “North South ESTEEM is a project funded through the Strategic Planning and Engagement Programme Investment Area of PEACEPLUS that demonstrates the importance of collaboration in key areas that will benefit citizens across the island of Ireland. It will demonstrate how we can find impactful solutions to challenges that exist on both sides of the border.”

A combined total of €19 million of PEACEPLUS funding has been awarded to nine projects to support cross-border collaboration between organisations in key sectors including emergency planning, healthcare, environment, the community, voluntary and social economy sector, and education, employment and skills in Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland.

The €19,026,058.44 funding announcement on the Strategic Planning and Engagement Programme Investment Area of PEACEPLUS will see projects enhancing cross-border cooperation to address obstacles that impact cross-border socio-economic, fluidity and the reconciliation process across the island of Ireland.

The following nine projects have received funding:

C-CASE (Cross-Border Collaboration to Activate the Skills Ecosystem) – €3,368,334.04

PHKH (Public Health Knowledge Hub) – €2,424,025.41

North South ESTEEM – €2,337,529.22

Resilient Neighbours (RN) – €2,302,034.88

TACTICS (Training Across Communities for Tactical Interoperability for Cross-Border Safety) – €2,051,959.53

CO LAB (Collaborative Leadership Across the Border) – €1,804,291.42

CHANGE – €1,799,862.06

InsightLink – €1,563,777.68

Border People FLOW – €1,374,244.20

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, officially launched the inaugural NW 2025: Shaping Our Digital Futures conference at Atlantic Technological University’s (ATU) Letterkenny campus on Thursday, 23 October 2025. The event brought together leading voices from education, industry, and government to examine how digital transformation is reshaping the North West cross-border region. 

Hosted by ATU on behalf of the North West Tertiary Education Cluster (NWTEC), the conference explored the opportunities and challenges associated with the rapid pace of technological change. NWTEC is a strategic alliance of the 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 (ETB). 

The event formed part of the North West Digital Employment Pathways Training Hub (NW DEPTH) project, supported by the PEACEPLUS Programme which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). It featured keynote addresses, expert panel discussions, and case studies highlighting the importance of collaboration between education and enterprise in developing a digitally skilled workforce. 

Minister Lawless launched the conference “The NWTEC partnership is delivering real impact across the North West, supporting upskilling, reskilling, research, and innovation to meet the evolving needs of employees, employers, and the wider economy. In a world of rapid technological change, the ability to adapt and align education with industry demands is not just valuable, it’s a strategic advantage. 

“The inaugural NW2025 Shaping Our Digital Futures Conference was a powerful platform to share best practice, showcase innovation, and engage directly with the opportunities and challenges ahead, particularly in areas like AI and cybersecurity. The event today stands as further recognition of the importance of deepening cross-border collaboration and maintaining a forward-looking focus on emerging trends.” 

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald added:  “I commend the organisers for convening a dynamic, cross-border conference that has brought together partners from across the North West to exchange best practices on the challenges of AI. Collaboration like this is key to unlocking the full potential of a digital future, one that delivers the good jobs and inclusive growth.” 

The conference was opened by ATU President, Dr Orla Flynn, who welcomed the Minister and delegates and highlighted the university’s role in supporting innovation across the North West; “At ATU, we see digital transformation as both a regional and national imperative. Events like NW2025 demonstrate the strength of partnership across the North West in addressing shared challenges and building a skilled, adaptive workforce. By aligning education, research, and enterprise, we are helping to position this region at the forefront of Ireland’s digital future.” 

The day’s proceedings, chaired by broadcaster Seán O’Rourke, included contributions from a range of national and international speakers. Matt Cooper, CEO of Volta in Nova Scotia, Canada, delivered the morning keynote address, Exploiting AI to Build New Innovative Enterprises, which examined how artificial intelligence is transforming industries and creating new business opportunities, with real lessons for the NW region from similar challenges faced in Nova Scotia. 

Panel discussions covered topics including digital innovation, artificial intelligence, skills development, and cybersecurity. Experts from across Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Canada participated, sharing insights on emerging technologies, ethical frameworks for AI, and the growing need for cross-sectoral collaboration. 

Reflecting on the event, Paul Hannigan, ATU Vice President for Cross Border Engagement and Head of College at ATU Donegal, said; “The success of today’s event reflects a deep commitment across institutions and sectors to work together in a practical and sustained way. The North West has a unique opportunity to leverage its cross-border ecosystem to drive digital innovation and employment. Collaboration at this level ensures that the benefits of digital progress are felt throughout our communities and economies.” 

Ulster University Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Seawright OBE, said:  

“Ulster University is delighted to be a partner of the North West Tertiary Education Cluster, which has hosted this inaugural conference bringing expert voices together at ATU Letterkenny to explore how digital transformation is reshaping the North West cross-border region. As a university, we are committed to driving innovation and fostering collaboration across education, industry, and government to create meaningful, lasting change in our society. The knowledge shared from this conference will help guide the development of a digitally skilled workforce who are ready to make an impact in a rapidly evolving digital world and to help deliver a more connected, sustainable future for all.” 

Leo Murphy, Principal & CEO of NWRC highlighted that: “AI is the engine of growth now. Today’s conference demonstrated how, through NWTEC and the PEACEPLUS-supported NW DEPTH initiative, we can align education with business, strengthen cross-border partnerships, and accelerate responsible AI adoption for SMEs and Communities, building a resilient talent pipeline and quality jobs for the North West.” 

Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB) Chief Executive Anne McHugh said: “Donegal ETB places great value on its work with our education partners in the North West Tertiary Education Cluster as this collaboration greatly benefits our county and region in a wide variety of ways. The platform that today affords us to explore the opportunities and challenges associated with the rapid pace of technological change will help us to map out our future collaborations and education and training provision over the coming years.” 

The NW 2025: Shaping Our Digital Futures conference attracted over 300 participants, including digital employers, policymakers, educators, and regional development stakeholders. It marked the first in a planned series of annual conferences under the NW DEPTH initiative, designed to build momentum around digital collaboration and skills development in the North West City Region. 

A state-of-the-art apprenticeship training facility is under development in Letterkenny following the signing of a construction contract between Atlantic Technological University (ATU) and Boyle Construction. The fitout of an existing building at Drumnahoagh, funded by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science under Project Ireland 2040, will enable a significant expansion of apprenticeship training across the region and nationally.

The building, which spans over 1,600 square metres together with an additional external compound and associated parking, will accommodate more than 200 apprentices annually. The facility will house advanced workshops and learning environments for apprenticeships in Metal Fabrication and Refrigeration & Air Conditioning.

The project represents a collaboration between ATU and Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB), with both institutions sharing the facility and delivering programmes under one roof. Strategically located close to ATU’s Letterkenny campus and the ETB campus, the development will strengthen tertiary cooperation and enhance access to apprenticeship education in the northwest.

Delivery of the project has been led out by the University and developed in collaboration with the ETB though each stage.

This is the last of five projects the University has successfully delivered as part of a €10m Apprenticeship Expansion programme announced in 2023, with electrical apprenticeships facilities already delivered in Killybegs, Mayo and Sligo, for more than 800 apprentices annually.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless said: “This project is a powerful example of what can be achieved when institutions work together with purpose. Donegal ETB and ATU Donegal have combined their strengths to create a single, purpose-built hub for high-quality apprenticeship training. My Department has provided significant funding through the Higher Education Apprenticeship Expansion Programme and the Further Education and Training Apprenticeship Equipment Fund to make this vision a reality.”

The Minister added: “Investing in local training infrastructure is about more than bricks and mortar, it’s about backing people, strengthening communities, and securing the future of our economy. This facility will give apprentices in Donegal the tools to thrive, while helping Ireland meet the skills challenges of tomorrow.”

Minister of State, Marian Harkin said “Donegal ETB continues to demonstrate leadership in delivering high-quality apprenticeship training that meets the needs of local industry and learners. This collaboration with ATU Donegal is a powerful example of how our education and training boards are driving innovation and regional development. The investment from my Department recognises the critical role ETBs play in expanding access to apprenticeships and equipping people with the skills they need to thrive in today’s economy.”

The signing, attended by Minister of State for Sport and Postal Policy and TD for Donegal, Charlie McGonalogue, welcomed the investment as a major boost for skills development and regional employment opportunities:

“This new facility represents a strong investment in Donegal’s future workforce,” the Minister said. “It will give local apprentices access to top-class training and facilities right here in the northwest, ensuring that young people and career changers alike can gain qualifications and experience that are essential to meeting Ireland’s future skills needs.”

Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU, said:

“This investment represents a major commitment to strengthening apprenticeship education across the region. By working collaboratively with our partners Donegal ETB, we are creating opportunities for students to gain practical, industry-focused training in high-demand trades. The Drumnahoagh facility will help meet Ireland’s growing need for skilled metal fabricators and refrigeration and air conditioning technicians while supporting sustainable regional growth.”

Henry McGarvey, Vice President with responsibility for campus infrastructure and IT, said:

“The signing of the contract with Boyle Construction, for the development of Metal Fabrication and Air Conditioning & Refrigeration apprenticeship facilities is part of a €10m investment in the expansion of apprenticeship provision in our university.

A total of €5.9m is being invested in this facility at Drumnahoagh in Letterkenny, which will offer students the opportunity to undertake Metal Fabrication and Air Conditioning & Refrigeration apprenticeships for the first time outside of Dublin or Cork. This initiative will also be the first time that apprenticeships will be undertaken in a shared building with the ETB, where Donegal ETB will provide phase 2 Metal Fabrication training, in a single tertiary campus.”

Eoin Bradley, ATU’s Head of Capital Development, acknowledged the progress made by the university’s Buildings and Estates team:

“It’s great to see this important project moving ahead. The team has worked closely with Donegal ETB and other stakeholders to bring a complex and collaborative development to this stage. We look forward to welcoming apprentices to the facility early next year and to seeing the pipeline of highly skilled tradespeople contribute to the national workforce.”

The new training facility is expected to open to apprentices in January 2026.

This is a Project Ireland 2040 funded project.

#Ireland2040

www.gov.ie/2040

The Centre for Cross Border Cooperation (CCBC) hosted its All-Island Labour Market: Challenges and Opportunities conference in Dundalk on Thursday 18 September.

The event brought together employers, workers’ representatives, and business support organisations to examine the future of the labour market across the island.

Dr Anthony Soares, Director at the Centre for Cross Border Cooperation which hosted the conference, said: “Our expert speakers addressed a wide range of issues affecting labour mobility, including the cross-border recognition of skills and qualifications, tax and pension reform, workers’ rights, and the need for accessible information and independent support.”

Dr Soares highlighted how the conference showcased both the progress already being made in cross-border cooperation and the untapped potential that remains within the region.

He also emphasised the Centre’s ongoing call for an official definition of frontier workers within the all-island context. Establishing such a definition, he argued, would enable policymakers to design targeted solutions that recognise the unique circumstances of these workers while ensuring that employers can access the skills they need to grow and compete.

The conference keynote speaker was Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA, Minister for the Economy, who said: “I was delighted to join the Centre for Cross Border Cooperation to discuss how we advance a more inclusive, skilled and connected all-island economy. The recent All-Island Labour Market Study provides us with a fundamental base to better understand the challenges of cross-border employment, as well as the opportunities. My department continues to build on these opportunities, with programmes such as Assured Skills Academies, Skills Focus, and InnovateUs, all helping people across the North gain new skills, while our colleges and universities continue to work with partners in the South. The conference discussions reaffirmed the critical role of collaboration in tackling our shared challenges and unlocking opportunity for workers across the island.”

Speaking on behalf of the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor, one of the conference’s co-headline sponsors, Cllr Robbie Nash, Chair of Dundalk Municipal District, said: “DBEC was delighted to support this conference and contribute to vital discussions on skills and labour mobility, a shared concern across the island. The event provided an important forum to identify gaps in the skills ecosystem affecting both the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor’s growth and the wider all-island economy. Discussions also highlighted the challenges faced by people living in one jurisdiction and working across the border in the other, reinforcing the need for continued collaboration to unlock the region’s full economic potential.”

Paul Hannigan, VP for Cross Border Engagement at Atlantic Technological University (ATU), part of the North West Tertiary Education Cluster, the conference’s other co-headline sponsor, added: “The North West Tertiary Education (NWTEC) partners, ATU, Ulster University, North West Regional College and Donegal Education and Training Board were delighted to support the Centre for Cross Border Cooperation’s Annual Conference. We see the CCBC as a key partner in breaking down the barriers to achieving greater economic prosperity for our cross border region. NWTEC aligned with key stakeholders in the region has the potential to establish the North West City Region as a significant growth centre for Ireland and Northern Ireland on a European and global stage.”

Colin McCabrey, Director of Trade at InterTradeIreland, added: “The positive cross-border economic landscape presents a strong foundation for future growth. Continued collaboration to enhance education and employment mobility is essential to fulfilling policy commitments across the island and driving long-term, sustainable productivity.”

Joining North West Tertiary Education Cluster and Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor as event sponsors were Accounting Technicians Ireland, Dublin City University, Dundalk Institute of Technology, EPIC Futures NI, InterTradeIreland, Irish Business and Employers Confederation (Ibec), Queen’s University Belfast and Southern Regional College.

 

 

The North West Tertiary Education Cluster has been announced as the co-headline sponsor of the ‘All-Island Labour Market: Challenges and Opportunities’ conference, which takes place on Thursday 18 September in Ballymascanlon Hotel, Dundalk.

The Centre for Cross Border Cooperation’s conference will shine a spotlight on the challenges and opportunities of the cross-border labour market. It will have input from employers, employees, and business support organisations.

Dr Anthony Soares, the Centre’s Director, said: “North West Tertiary Education Cluster is a success story in partnership working and we’re delighted to have it as our co-headline conference sponsor. The Cluster comprises Atlantic Technological University, Donegal Education and Training Board, North West Regional College and Ulster University. Between them, the four institutions have over 85,000 students and learners, and there is a strong focus on world-leading research, skills training, enterprise support and advanced digital technologies.”

In February 2018, the North West Strategic Growth Partnership (NWSGP), in conjunction with the tertiary education providers of the North West City Region, announced a new agreement in education, training and innovation to establish the now titled 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). 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.

The official launch of NWTEC’s North West Digital Employment Pathways Training Hub (NW DEPTH) initiative took place on 29 April 2025. This project, supported by PEACEPLUS, will run for four years, with the first cohort of learners being recruited shortly, and will see an investment of nearly €10 million in digital skills in the North West region.

Paul Hannigan, VP for Cross Border Engagement at ATU, said: “By working together, our plan is to create a dynamic and successful Shared North West. It will be a connected, high-performing region achieved through research, innovation, collaboration and growth. We’re delighted that NWTEC will join Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor as co-headline sponsors at the Centre for Cross Border Cooperation’s Annual Conference.”

Joining North West Tertiary Education Cluster and Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor as event sponsors are Accounting Technicians Ireland, Dublin City University, Dundalk Institute of Technology, EPIC Futures NI, InterTradeIreland, Irish Business and Employers Confederation (Ibec), Queen’s University Belfast and Southern Regional College.

Conference tickets are available through the Centre’s website at www.crossborder.ie

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.