Reaction to Carlow College St Patrick’s becoming part of the South East Technological University appears to be mixed.
We revealed the news yesterday and this morning heard from Minister of State and local TD Jennifer Murnane O’Connor while fellow Fianna Fáil Deputy John McGuinness says; “This is an important and welcome development for Carlow and the wider South East region. The priority throughout this process has rightly been to protect students and ensure that every learner currently enrolled at Carlow College can complete their studies and graduate as planned,” Deputy McGuinness said.
“The agreed two-year teach-out period provides clarity and reassurance for students and their families, while also recognising the proud educational tradition and contribution that Carlow College has made over more than two centuries.”
Deputy McGuinness welcomed the continued engagement between Carlow College, SETU and the Department of Further and Higher Education in securing what he described as “a responsible and student-centred outcome.”
“It is particularly significant that the Carlow College campus and lands will remain in educational use through their future transfer to SETU. This represents a major opportunity for the continued development of higher education in Carlow and across the South East,” he said.
“The campus has enormous potential to support regional development, research, enterprise collaboration and future student accommodation needs, while strengthening SETU’s presence in Carlow.”
Deputy McGuinness also paid tribute to the staff, students and leadership of Carlow College for their commitment during what he acknowledged will be a challenging transition period.
“Carlow College has played a hugely important role in the educational, cultural and community life of the region since 1782. Its legacy and contribution to liberal arts education will continue to be recognised and valued long into the future,” he added.
“While this marks the end of one chapter, it also creates an opportunity to secure a strong and sustainable future for higher education on the site for generations to come.”
Minister for Higher Education James Lawless joined our Brian Redmond to discuss the topic further on The KCLR Daily;
However, some are hoping certain issues are addressed before the merger – one representative of the Students with Disabilities Advisory Panel who studies at SETU outlined her concerns;
