Springboard Learning boost at ITs
BOTH WIT and Carlow IT have welcomed the announcement of Springboard+ funding.
Institute of Technology Carlow and WIT have been awarded the funding for industry-focused programmes ranging from certificates, diplomas, degrees, higher diplomas, postgraduate certificates and master’s degrees from levels 6-9 on the National Framework of Qualifications. In addition, at Carlow IT, five programmes are being funded through Human Capital Initiative Pillar 1. In total, almost 750 places will be made available to prospective learners looking to upskill, change career or return to employment.
According to Dr Joseph Collins, head of the faculty of Lifelong Learning at Carlow IT, each programme has been designed in response to the current and future needs of industry and presents a unique opportunity for learners to avail of free or heavily subsidised upskilling or reskilling.
‘Lifelong learning is key to being “job-fit” in the modern workforce. As we move more towards a digital economy, new technologies and opportunities are emerging which mandate that workers upskill to maintain the competitiveness of industry and business,’ he said.
Speaking ahead of the July 1 ‘Virtual Open Day’ when WIT’s Springboard courses will be announced, Neil Quinlan, head of the Department of Lifelong Learning at WIT, said that the Government’s range of Springboard+ courses and the institute’s parttime and flexible course offering could be key to helping futureproof careers impacted by Covid-19.