The Galway Technical Institute is celebrating 75 years serving the educational needs of both local learners and, in more recent times, learners from far flung corners of the land.
The building that GTI occupies in Father Griffin Road, The Claddagh, was completed in 1938. Initially the school catered for second level students only, but it has developed and flourished over the past 75 years to become a further education centre of excellence in the west of Ireland.
Wednesday December 4 is Celebration Day at GTI with exciting events planned to commemorate a notable milestone in the history of the college.
A nautical theme prevails on the day in recognition of the maritime tradition of the Claddagh locality and all proceeds raised from the various activities organised by the college will be donated to The Royal National Lifeboat Institute.
GTI staff and students are inviting the public to join in the celebrations - with “ a special warm welcome to all who are of a similar vintage to GTI”.
The GTI Photography Gallery will provide past students with a trip down memory lane, and for the women, GTI is offering free pampering treatments, including nail file and polish treatments in the café located on the ground floor.
There will be a selection of Pop Up shops with pre-loved clothing, beauty and hair care products to browse through, while the maritime theme will be much in evidence when 32 models assemble in the GTI café at 1.30pm showcasing nautical themed hair styles. The children from Claddagh National School are also involved and are taking part in the 75th celebrations with an art competition on a nautical theme.
Esteemed local historian Peadar O’Dowd will be attending the celebrations, along with the Mayor of Galway, Padraig Conneely, and the Junior Minister for Further Education, Ciaran Cannon, to unveil a plaque in the foyer of the college.
