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Central Bank Governor tells ATU students: strong writing skills still matter in an AI-driven future
The Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland, Gabriel Makhlouf, visited Atlantic Technological University’s Sligo campus today, meeting with university leadership, staff, and students during a wide‑ranging engagement on the economy, education, and the future of work.
Governor Makhlouf was welcomed by senior members of staff, including Dr Amelia Au‑Yeung, Associate Professor and Dean of Faculty of Business, with whom he discussed ATU’s growing role in regional development and innovation.
Governor Makhlouf later addressed a full auditorium, offering an overview of the current national and international financial landscape and taking questions on a range of topics from students and staff.
He also reflected on the increasing role of artificial intelligence in the workplace. While acknowledging that AI will significantly change how many professions function, he said he does not believe it will replace future jobs.
One of his main messages focused on communication skills. The Governor encouraged students to invest in clear, effective writing, noting a noticeable decline in concise report‑writing ability across professional sectors.
Speaking after the visit, Dr Au‑Yeung said:
“Governor Makhlouf’s visit to ATU gave our students a great opportunity to ask questions on finance and the economy at the highest level. His insights into the evolving economic landscape and the skills future graduates will need are invaluable to our students and staff.”
Dr Marie Moran, Head of Department of Business at ATU’s Sligo campus said, “On behalf of staff and students in the Department of Business, I would like to thank Governor Makhlouf for visiting the Sligo campus and for engaging in such a positive and inspiring discussion on a wide range of topics.”
Members of ATU’s staff were among those who attended a dinner hosted by the Governor in Sligo. The Governor described his visit to the region as highly useful and informative, noting strong ongoing work despite clear challenges. He said there was a sense of optimism, with discussions showing the need for improved infrastructure in areas such as transport, energy and housing. Talks also focused on boosting high‑potential start‑ups, expanding R&D capacity, strengthening links between industry and academia, and ensuring companies can access talent and European markets, including the skills needed to harness AI.
Concluding the visit, Governor Makhlouf presented Dr Au‑Yeung with a specially minted George Bernard Shaw coin, commemorating the occasion.
Photo caption: Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland, Gabriel Makhlouf, addresses students at Atlantic Technological University’s Sligo campus.
Aidan Haughey
Communications Manager
Tel: +353 87 961 8355
