Atlantic TU to host a Conference exploring Potential of the Northwest Region

Wednesday, October 05, 2022 Press Office
Press Releases
Press- Simon Harris TD.PNG

Atlantic Technological University will host a conference exploring the economic and social potential of the northwest region in terms of education and employment, with insights from guest speakers; Minister for Further & Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Mr. Simon Harris T.D. and Economist, David McWilliams.  

The conference held at ATU’s Donegal Letterkenny campus on Friday 7 October from 9.30am, will be addressed by Minister Harris T.D., who will outline Governments commitment to supporting education collaboration on an all-Island basis.   

Over 150 delegates will hear remarks from renowned Economist, David Mc Williams who will share his views on best practice for transforming the region into a growing economy. 

Former RTE Northern Ireland Correspondent, Tommie Gorman will host the event that will examine cross-border activity taking place in the region and hear about plans for future collaboration in terms of employment and education, with partners working in collaboration to provide leadership, opportunity and the development of a talent pipeline for the region and beyond. 

The conference has been organised by the North West Tertiary Education Cluster (NWTEC) comprising of the four main Educational Institutions in the region, and includes Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Donegal Education & Training Board (DETB), Ulster University (U.U) and North West Regional College (NWRC). The cluster was established with the aim to bring about real and positive change to the region by supporting enhanced economic prosperity and social benefits to the region through education and employment.   

Speaking ahead of the conference, President of the ATU, Dr Orla Flynn, referring to the skilled workforce, availability of talent, connectivity and the quality of life in the region, said: “This is a project of huge strategic importance to the northwest and one ATU is delighted to be a partner in. Together with Donegal ETB, Ulster University and North West Regional College, we want to make the northwest region an attractive place to study and work and this cluster will play a vital role with other key stakeholders to ensure that we continue to develop the region for everyone”. 

The conference will conclude by hearing from leaders in Industry & Education discussing why it is best to look northwest. The event will be live streamed from 9.30 a.m. Friday 7th October here.