Capital funding of €1.4 million has been allocated to Athlone IT, it has been confirmed this week.
The third level college which recently welcomed the return of students to on campus learning and will become a Technical University from October 1, received the welcome news on Monday following an announcement for Higher Education funding totalling €38 million for capital works, equipment and laptops.
Local Fine Gael Senator, Aisling Dolan, broadly welcomed the announcement noting that it was a “fantastic investment for higher education at a local level”.
“This is fantastic investment for higher education as students return to campus this month. With €1,403,709 allocated to Athlone Institute of Technology as part of the Shannon TÚS Midlands-Midwest, this will support safety on campus as well as investment in our colleges for additional student numbers.
“A €130,000 device fund allocation for students in Athlone will mean no third level learner is being left behind. It will ensure laptops and devices for those who need them and that all students can reach their potential as they start in college. This fund will prioritise first years and families can contact Student Access Offices to find out more.
“With so many students receiving Leaving Certificate results on Friday last, it is an exciting time and there are so many options for our school leavers. With apprenticeship programmes in finance, accountancy, pharma and more, students could have the opportunity to work in a role from the very beginning to know if they enjoy it. Find out more how you can earn and learn your way to a degree or PhD on apprenticeship.ie
“Many students will move between two and three careers so lifelong learning is a great way to continue our education,” Senator Dolan concluded.
