Joint Committee on Education, Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to discuss the effects of Covid-19 on Higher Education Institutions and Funding and Future Reforms

Representatives from the Irish Universities Association and the Technological Higher Education Association will come before the committee to give evidence regarding admissions and reopening, delivery of courses, funding and future reforms, live on Oireachtas TV.

Speaking in advance of the meeting, Committee Chairperson, Paul Kehoe TD, said: “The Committee will explore the impact of Covid-19 on the Higher Education Institutions but also look to the future, in terms of funding requirements and reforms.

“When the pandemic struck, and face to face education stopped, the overriding concern was for all students but especially students with additional needs. The Joint Committee genuinely acknowledges and appreciates the great efforts of all staff in the Higher Education sector to make sure students continued their studies with a digital interface. Students finished the academic year, with no diminution in the quality of the learning experience.

“Staff and students alike were flexible and adapted to change, and we have to commend the Higher Education Institutions for their support of the new initiatives. However, the last nine months or so have not been without challenges, especially in terms of its impact on normal student life, budgetary implications, supporting international students; Brexit and managing September’s student intake.

“The Committee looks forward to discussing these challenges and, equally, the future direction of Higher Education with the Irish Universities Association and the Technological Higher Education Association. It is a pivotal time in Higher Education with significant developments such as Technological University Dublin and the soon to be Munster Technological University.”

For more information about the work of the Joint Committee on Education, Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science see the Committee webpage