The AIT-LIT Consortium has received a major funding boost to assist in its progression towards achieving technological university (TU) status. The consortium was awarded a further €5 million from the Higher Education Innovation and Transformation Fund to help actualise its ambition.
The news was announced by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris, as part of a multi-million euro investment into the higher education landscape.
“This is welcome news, and demonstrates confidence in our forthcoming application for TU designation,” said AIT President Professor Ciarán Ó Catháin. “It is an important juncture in our journey as we prepare to create a new entity, capable of sustaining social, economic and industrial growth across the region”.
Deputy Denis Naughten welcomed the Government allocation of €5m towards the development of a new Technological University in Athlone, working with Limerick.
He said that the new Shannonside-based technological University will be based on two campuses in Athlone and Limerick and will be a huge boost towards attracting new industrial investment throughout our region. Senator Aisling Dolan also warmly welcomed the announcement.
“Based on the current timelines the new Shannonside-based Technological University will be the second such university in the country and the fast-tracking of this application is down to the commitment of the staff and management teams in both Athlone and Limerick,” stated Denis Naughten.
