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Interim President of ITT Dr Brendan O’Donnell and President of CIT, Dr Barry O’Connor
THE Institute of Technology Tralee (ITT) and Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) will join to become the Munster Technological University on January 1, 2021.
An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD, Minister for Education and Skills Joe McHugh TD and Minister of State for Higher Education Mary Mitchell O’Connor made the announcement today.
Mr Lionel Alexander, Chair of IT Tralee’s Governing Body said: “The new Technological University will grow from the foundations laid down by CIT and ITT. MTU will be the first regionally based Technological University in Ireland. Our ambition is to have a lasting positive impact economically, socially and culturally on the South-West region and beyond; and our values will guide our relationships with students, with staff, our partners and the wider community of stakeholders”.
President of IT Tralee, Dr Brendan O’Donnell, in welcoming today’s announcement, signalled MTU’s ability to become astrong driver of economic growth for the region:
“This is a time of unprecedented challenge for the region, Ireland and the world. MTU will play a leadership role in the strategic development of the South-West region as we work towards national and global recovery. The availability of a skilled professional workforce is essential to the creation of Irish companies and in attracting new companies to locate in Ireland.”
Fianna Fáil TD for Kerry Norma Foley welcomed news, stating; “I’m so pleased that we have finally gotten to this point and have been granted Technological University status for Tralee. This is a huge boost for the campus and the town as a whole and it secures the future of the college for years to come.”
Kerry County Council has warmly welcomed the announcement with Cathaoirleach, Cllr Niall Kelleher saying it was an enormous boost for Kerry and provided new and exciting opportunities for education, research, business and economic development in the county.
Secondary schools will get university status next!
LOL.
It is said that sarcasm is the lowest form of wit! Big congratulations to both, but especially to ITT.