The South East Technological University’s on track to continue expanding access to higher education for people in custody.
The regional facility’s been granted €142,500 under the Community Safety Fund 2026 to build on its ‘A Footbridge to the Pathway’ initiative in Portlaoise Prison which it delivers in association with Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board and the Irish Prison Service. (More on that here).
The pilot addressed a significant gap in access to higher education within the prison system by bringing in-person flexible, accredited learning directly into the custodial setting. Students completed modules that can be recognised as standalone qualifications or contribute towards SETU’s Level 7 degree in Community Development and Leadership.
Head of Department – Director of Lifelong Learning at SETU Rosemary Flynn said: “Education can play an important role in creating pathways to opportunity, and that principle should extend to people in custody. Through this initiative, SETU and our partners have demonstrated what can be achieved when accredited higher education is made accessible in a way that responds to learners’ circumstances and supports them to recognise their own potential.
“This funding will allow us to build on that work, creating further opportunities for people in custody to engage with higher education and develop knowledge, skills and confidence that can support their rehabilitation and reintegration into their communities.”
David Higgins, Supervising Teacher at the Education Unit of Portlaoise Prison, part of LOETB commented; “We have seen first-hand the positive impact that access to higher education can have on people in custody. Through this initiative, learners have engaged in a genuine university experience that has challenged and motivated them, helping them to develop academic skills, confidence. and a stronger belief in their own ability to progress in education.
“The impact extends well beyond gaining a qualification. Education can support people to build a positive sense of identity, develop the skills and resilience needed to make constructive choices, and prepare for successful reintegration into their communities. The engagement and achievements of learners to date have been extremely encouraging, and this funding provides an important opportunity to build on what has been a ground-breaking initiative within the prison education environment.”
