Seán Haughey, Minister of State at the Department of Education & Science, last week launched the publication ‘Further Education Conference 2006: Proceedings.’
The publication, which was launched in Waterford, details the Further Education Conference held in November 2006 by Water-ford College of Further Education and City of Waterford VEC to mark the centenary of the college.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Haughey said the publication would allow a wide audience an opportunity to read and evaluate the many issues debated at last year’s conference.
Outlining the various issues raised during the conference, the Minister said: “The publication highlights many unique characteristics of Further Education, including the small highly supported classes found throughout the sector; the highly specialised niche courses now widely available and the fact that Further Education has the highest representation of mature students of any sector.
“The report also points to the ability of the sector to respond speedily and effectively to the constantly changing needs of the learn-ers. These characteristics show the key role that the Further Education sector is now playing in relation to Lifelong Learning.”
Minister Haughey spoke about future standards in the sector, saying, “in terms of developing a formal structure for the sector, many important issues are being progressed. The National Framework of Qualifications now provides us with a framework through which learners can access, transfer, progress and gain FETAC accreditation.
“The introduction of FETAC standards cross the sector, although challenging, will greatly assist programme providers and learners alike in the future.”
Minister Haughey concluded by thanking everyone involved, in particular Gerard Morgan, Principal, Waterford College of Further Education, and Paudie Geary, CEO, City of Water-ford VEC, and all the staff, saying “this excellent publication which will be of huge benefit to all stakeholders in the sector. It is a fitting record by which to celebrate the centenary of Waterford College of Further Education.”
