Course for students with intellectual disabilities to be introduced in Dundalk IT

Local Fine Gael TD, Fergus O’Dowd, has welcomed news today that from September DKIT will deliver a course for students with intellectual disabilities titled Certificate in General Learning: Skills for Independent Living.

O’Dowd said: “This news comes as part of a national announcement by my colleague Minister Simon Harris which will see new courses for students with intellectual disabilities introduced in ten different higher education institutions across the country, due to commence in academic year 2024/25. 

“This transformational policy will ensure college courses designed specifically for learners with an intellectual disability will be rolled out from September.”

Speaking today, Minister Harris said: We know that people with an intellectual disability have not been represented adequately in Higher Education.  We want and need our College Campuses to reflect communities.

“Today, we are making a change. Today we are opening doors and opportunities so that these learners can take their place among our college communities.

“That is why we are announcing expanded Higher Education course provision today with expected investment of over €10 million to support learners with an intellectual disability.

“Up until now, courses have been limited in location and availability but this investment will help change that and ensure there is equality of opportunity for every person in our country.”

The programmes span over 10 different higher education institutions and are due to commence in academic year 2024/25.  Approximately 150 students can be expected to enrol in the first year of provision.

Under this initiative, the courses will be between one and two years in length. The student will apply directly to the college involved and can avail of specific pastoral and financial supports.

Minister Harris added: “These courses have been designed with the learner at heart. When given the opportunity, students with an intellectual disability can thrive. Access to higher education can lead to employment. It can transform the lives of students and their families as well as society as a whole.”

In addition, Minister Harris is announcing €1.8 million to roll out sensory maps of college campuses to support autistic learners and anti-racism measures particularly to challenge racism for members of the Traveller and Roma communities.