Louth County Council welcomes partnership between Dundalk IT and Queen’s University

Louth County Council has warmly welcomed the announcement of a major new partnership between Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) and Queen’s University Belfast, which will see DkIT become a University College of Queen’s University Belfast.

The collaboration, the first all-island initiative of its kind, aims to strengthen higher education provision, research capacity, and economic development across the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor.

Under the agreement, students enrolling from September 2026 will graduate with a Queen’s University Belfast degree or postgraduate qualification, while, DkIT says,  benefiting from enhanced academic standards and expanded opportunities for research and innovation.

The partnership will also establish a Joint Research and Innovation Hub on the Dundalk campus, focusing on areas such as health and life sciences, energy, and sustainability.

Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “This is a game-changing development for County Louth and the wider North-East region. By embedding DkIT within Queen’s University’s academic framework, we are creating a world-class higher education offering right here in Dundalk. It will open doors for our young people, attract talent and investment, and firmly position Louth as a key driver of growth along the Dublin–Belfast Economic Corridor.

“What makes this announcement truly historic is its All-Ireland dimension, a collaboration that bridges communities and strengthens ties across the island for the benefit of future generations. Education provides opportunity, and this partnership ensures that our county is at the forefront of innovation and progress.”

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, added: “The benefits of this partnership will be felt far beyond the campus gates. It strengthens our regional competitiveness, supports industry collaboration, and enhances research capacity in critical sectors. For students, it means access to globally recognised qualifications without leaving the region. For businesses, it means a pipeline of skilled graduates and new opportunities for collaboration. This is exactly the kind of strategic initiative that underpins our vision for a vibrant, sustainable, and prosperous Louth.

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“I want to congratulate Dr Diarmuid O’Callaghan, President of Dundalk Institute of Technology, and his team for their leadership and vision in bringing this partnership to fruition. It is a testament to his commitment to advancing education and opportunity for our region.”

A Spokesperson for Louth County Council said: "The partnership aligns with Louth County Council's commitment to fostering economic growth, innovation, and quality of life for residents, as outlined in the Louth County Council Corporate Plan. It also reinforces Louth’s central role in the Dublin–Belfast Economic Corridor, a region of strategic importance for investment and development."