University of Galway and Atlantic Technological University have renewed a partnership for the provision of teacher education.

Both universities re-committed to the Western Institute of Studies in Education (WISE) as the Centre of Excellence of Initial Teacher Education in the West and North-West region. 

The partnership builds on the historic collaboration between Atlantic Technological University and University of Galway to strengthen teacher education in the region, including the development and delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, research and broader educational initiatives. WISE collectively serves 1200 Initial Teacher Education (ITE) students in both undergraduate B.Ed and postgraduate Professional Master of Education programmes.

President of Atlantic Technological University, Dr Orla Flynn, said: “Our purpose in ATU is to enhance the quality of life in our region, through excellent education and research, working collaboratively with partners like the University of Galway. The renewal of this MOU is a strong signal of our collective commitment to supporting the educational needs of young people in our region, and no doubt we will see further innovative initiatives together with the University of Galway in the years ahead.”

Professor David Burn, President of University of Galway, said: “The EU classifies the north-west of Ireland as a ‘lagging’ region. The University has to be part of changing that, with partnership being central to our approach. We greatly value this reinvigorated partnership with Atlantic Technological University which will significantly contribute to improving outcomes in the region, through initial teacher education and related initiatives.”

The renewed partnership was confirmed with the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding by University of Galway and Atlantic Technological University.

The signing recognises the autonomy of each institution as a recognised ITE provider to develop programmes in their respective areas and ensuring the region’s needs are met.

The Western Institute of Studies in Education (WISE) is underpinned by a shared commitment to academic and educational cooperation. It is considered a key vehicle through which the Atlantic Technological University and University of Galway will continue to contribute to growth in the region.

The teacher education partnership is in line with recommendations of the Northern and Western Regional Assembly and the European Commission, including to address rising regional socio-economic inequalities through the provision of a skilled workforce, support research and innovation, the encouragement of partnerships and collaborations, and a focus on efficiencies and productivity.

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