The AIT-LIT Consortium – a group from Athlone IT (AIT) and Limerick IT (LIT) – has formally submitted an application to jointly create a new technological university in the Midlands and Mid-West.
The application marks a significant step forward in the two institutes’ attempts to join together to form a technological university, similar to the Technological University of Dublin, which provides a range of degrees from apprenticeships.
The consortium hopes to see the new technological university open its doors on September 1st, 2021.
In a press statement today, Minister for Higher Education Simon Harris described the news as “really welcome”.
“There is a formal legislative process to take place now but this is an exciting prospect for the Midlands and Mid-West and can be regionally hugely transformative”, he said.
Transforming institutes of technology into technological universities has been a priority for successive Fine Gael governments.
The Munster Technological University – an amalgamation of IT Tralee and Cork IT – is set to be established on January 1st, 2021.
In a press statement, President of AIT Ciaran Ó Catháin said: “This is a transformational development for the Midlands, and once it comes to fruition, it will provide significant social and economic benefit to communities across the region and beyond.”
“Becoming a TU will broaden access to higher education and create opportunities in areas that have previously been under served with respect to apprenticeships right through to PhD.”
“I am immensely proud of the progress that have been made since the formation of the AIT – LIT Consortium a little over a year ago and of our staff, who have worked together in the spirit of common purpose to share knowledge and expertise.”
“This has culminated in us reaching and surpassing the substantive TU metrics set out by Government and increasing our research capacity”, he added. “Our commitment to our technological mission is resolute and will result in a talent pipeline of professionally and technically skilled graduates capable of propelling regional and national growth.”
In a press statement, President of LIT Professor Vincent Cunnane said: “We are on a pathway to deliver a unique new technological university that will cross regions and transcend geography. While this will be an institution of scale, it will retain the familiarity of local campuses across two significant regions.”
“This enables us to act as a regional development powerhouse into the future, delivering education and research that will benefit students, educators, communities, business and industry in a strategic way.”
“Our approach is based on partnership and consensus, and is indeed underpinned by consultation with staff, students and other stakeholders. The consortium has a strong set of shared values and a shared ethic that provides a firm foundation to deliver on our future strategy.”
