TCPID Successful Bid for Funding in PATH 4 Phase 2
This marked a historic moment for inclusive higher education as Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris (TD) announced the roll-out of higher education courses for students with intellectual disabilities. This significant initiative, spearheaded by Harris’ department and the Higher Education Authority (HEA), will be delivered across 10 higher education colleges nationwide, offering unprecedented opportunities for learners with intellectual disabilities across communities.
Minister Harris emphasised the importance of equitable representation in higher education, stating: "We know that people with an intellectual disability have not been represented adequately in Higher Education. We want and need our College campuses to reflect their communities."
He highlighted the €10 million investment to support learners with intellectual disabilities, ensuring equality of opportunity for all.
In response to last year's call for comprehensive plans to support such students in higher education, institutions across Ireland submitted proposals. The Department of Further and Higher Education Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS) has allocated funding to those with the most promising initiatives and the PATH 4 Phase 2 Launch Event unveiled the recipients of this crucial government support.
Minister Simon Harris presided over the announcement, shining a light on the colleges and universities excelling in fostering inclusive education for students with intellectual disabilities. Additionally, the event featured enlightening speeches from representatives of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and a focus on the lived experiences of students and graduates with intellectual disabilities who have attended some of the pioneering initiatives that pre-date the PATH 4.
TCPID’s successful proposal for PATH 4 Phase 2 funding, aims to provide sustainable university and employment pathways for students with intellectual disabilities. Through a seamless integration of awareness-building, academic excellence, and post-graduation support within its three distinct phased plan. TCPID seeks to continue to empower students and promote inclusivity in higher education.
Professor Michael Shevlin, Director of Trinity Centre for People with Intellectual Disabilities said: "As the Director of TCPID, I am thrilled by the success of our programme in securing funding under the PATH 4 Phase 2 initiative. Originally emerging from the unmet demand for inclusive post-secondary education, today, I am proud to see the government formally recognising our students' innate ability and acknowledging the potential of future generations.
Young people with intellectual disabilities deserve the right to belong wherever they choose, and TCPID is dedicated to providing them with the opportunities and resources necessary to thrive. This funding not only validates our efforts but also empowers us to continue our mission of creating a more inclusive society.
I extend my gratitude to everyone involved in making this success possible, especially my dedicated colleagues in TCPID and the School of Education. We are excited to see the positive impact this funding will have on the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities – not just in Trinity, but all across the country."In addition to celebrating the PATH 4 Phase 2 Launch, TCPID recently marked its 20th anniversary with an event titled 'Learning Without Limits.' This anniversary event showcased the TCPID’s dedication to pushing boundaries and advocating for inclusive practices in higher education. The focal point of the event was the conversation salons where students past and present spoke about their experiences of studying and student life at Trinity College and their employment prospects post-college life.
TCD Provost Linda Doyle said: “TCPID has been a trail blazer in advancing higher education opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities, and its impact has been felt at a national and European level. This funding success will propel the Arts Science and Inclusive Practice programme to a new level of provision. I want to congratulate the entire team, especially the Director, Prof. Michael Shevlin, on this funding success.
Trinity is incredibly proud of all that has been achieved to date and we are really looking forward to seeing all that is to come. Inclusion matters and the Trinity Centre for People with Intellectual Disabilities provides leadership for us all to follow.”
TCPID, based within the School of Education at Trinity College stands as a beacon of inclusive education, advocating for individuals with intellectual disabilities. With a rich history spanning 20 years, TCPID continues to pave the way for transformative education and limitless opportunities.
To read the full government announcement and to see the full list of awardees go to:
Some of our students were interviewed by RTE News at the announcement event. You can read the full news piece here:
Here is a video capturing the TCPID's successful bid for PATH 4.
