Ten new college courses for students with intellectual disabilities announced by Minister Simon Harris

Higher Education Minister Simon Harris has announced the roll-out of 10 courses for students with intellectual disabilities.

The courses will be delivered in 10 higher-education colleges across the country and are due to commence in the 2024/2025 academic year.

Around 150 students are expected to be enrolled in the first year.

The approved courses have been specifically designed to meet the diverse range of needs of students with intellectual disabilities and will include the provision of financial, pastoral and educational supports.

Mr Harris has also revealed that €1.8m in funding will be ­provided to roll out sensory maps of college campuses to support autistic learners and anti-racism measures, particularly to challenge racism towards Traveller and Roma communities.

“College campuses have to reflect communities,” Mr Harris said, adding:

“That is why we are announcing over €10m today to open up our higher education system to learners with an intellectual disability.”

Under this initiative, the courses will be between one and two years in length. The student will apply directly to the college involved.

The colleges where the courses are available include Atlantic Technological University, South East Technological University, Dundalk IT, IADT Dún Laoghaire, Mary Immaculate College, Munster Technological University, TU Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, University College Cork and the University of Galway.

Some of the courses have work placement modules, and focus on health and fitness, drama, art and design. They also teach communication, money management and computer skills.

“These courses have been designed with the learner at heart,” Mr Harris said.

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