Significant Funding for North West Digital Skills

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Funding for the North West Digital Employment Pathway Training Hub (NW DEPTH) initiative was included in a total of €46,064,915 of PEACEPLUS funding announced recently to improve equal access to inclusive and quality services in education, training and lifelong learning in Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland.

This project – supported by the PEACEPLUS Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) – will be led by Atlantic Technological University, in partnership with Ulster University, North West Regional College, and Donegal Education and Training Board via their well-established strategic collaboration, the North West Tertiary Education Cluster (NWTEC).

The Area Based Regional Skills Development Programme, through the PEACEPLUS Delivering Socio-Economic Regeneration and Transformation theme, will develop and upskill 10,000 people to engage on key growth sectors, which will boost economic growth and create a more balanced regional economy. The NW DEPTH proposal aims to deliver a digital skills framework targeting the North West City Region (County Donegal and the Derry City and Strabane District Council Area). The NW DEPTH project will develop and deliver a portfolio of upskilling and reskilling programmes to ensure 2,000+ people advance up the qualifications’ framework via digital and cybersecurity skills courses.

The NW DEPTH project will run for a four-year period and will see close to a €10 million investment in digital skills in the North West. A target of 2,000+ participants will have access to high-quality employment-focused digital and cybersecurity tertiary education programmes free of charge. To ensure a lasting legacy, the funding also includes provision for the development of a NW Digital Strategy aimed at supporting the growth of the many innovative digital enterprises operating in this cross-border region and improving the attractiveness of the region for the establishment of new smart enterprises.

PEACEPLUS is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and represents a funding partnership between the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive.

NWTEC partners recognise the strong support that this represents from the funders and the responsibility it confers on NWTEC to deliver on the transformative potential that this funding has in conjunction with other recent funding announcements, such as the Derry and Strabane Growth Deal.

Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU, stated that “securing PEACEPLUS funding for the NW DEPTH project will empower a significant number of individuals to thrive in an increasingly digital world of employment. It will not only enrich individual lives, but this funding will also strengthen regional industries by better facilitating innovation as well as providing support for economic growth. I want to congratulate those who worked on this bid and look forward to seeing successful outcomes being achieved in the years ahead.”

Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor at Ulster University said “Ulster University is delighted to be a key project partner on the North West Digital Employment Pathways Training Hub (NW DEPTH) initiative. This is a strategically important investment in the skills profile of the NW region and complements other major investment plans enabled by the Derry and Strabane City Deal and Shared Island funding. This project builds on existing collaboration and co-operation established through the North West Tertiary Education Cluster and this PEACEPLUS investment in digital skills is a further endorsement of the value placed on, and importance of, developing education and capacity to support economic and social development across the region. The overall objective of DEPTH is to develop a Digital Skills framework for individuals to support re-entering, remaining or progressing their role in the NW region workforce, which is particularly important as we work with partners across the region to expand Ulster University’s campus in Derry~Londonderry. We look forward to continuing to work with partners on the digital skills development, upskilling and reskilling provision in the region targeting 2000 participants across the four years of the project.”

SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre said: “This PEACEPLUS funding supports five area-based approaches, designed to address evidenced skills gaps, which will result in increased productivity and employment and higher levels of cross-border labour mobility. The programme and the joined-up approach will enable cross-community and cross-border collaboration between education and training-based collaborations that maximise the capacity of the programme area to address existing and emerging skills gaps, and opportunities for reskilling. Economic development in post-conflict regions is vital in underpinning peace. Investment in the economy, providing support for SMEs, research, and innovation in specific areas of need are among the key focus areas for the PEACEPLUS Delivering Socio-Economic Regeneration and Transformation theme.”

Leo Murphy, Principal and Chief Executive of North West Regional College (NWRC) said: “We at NWRC are delighted to be involved as a partner on the NW DEPTH project. This is a validation of the excellent work of the North West Tertiary Education Cluster by building digital and cybersecurity skills sets within our NW region. The partnership with Mastercard allows the region to develop an enhanced presence on FinTech and cyber expertise at a tertiary skills level. This will allow us to build competitive advantage and lead to the potential for more inward investment and indigenous growth in this sector.”

Anne McHugh, Chief Executive of Donegal Education and Training Board expressed delight that the NWTEC will be providing this much needed digital skills training in the region. “Our cross-border region is unique and full of opportunities and promise. This funding will significantly raise the chances that its promise will be fulfilled as we continue to seek to provide opportunities which will allow the region to compete on an all-island basis. Donegal ETB plays an enormously important part in the skills development area within Co Donegal and the cross-border region and the PEACEPLUS funding will contribute to this ongoing work in a really positive way.”

Paul Hannigan, Head of College ATU Donegal and VP for Cross-border Engagement at ATU, noted: “NWTEC is a strong partnership, and through our industry engagement via the NWTEC Smart Industry Board together with our links to community groups, this consortium is committed and well placed to deliver on the full potential of this critically important PEACEPLUS support for the North West City Region.”

We at NWRC are delighted to be involved as a partner on the NW DEPTH project. This is a validation of the excellent work of the North West Tertiary Education Cluster by building digital and cybersecurity skills sets within our NW region. The partnership with Mastercard allows the region to develop an enhanced presence on FinTech and cyber expertise at a tertiary skills level. This will allow us to build competitive advantage and lead to the potential for more inward investment and indigenous growth in this sector.
Leo Murphy
Principal and Chief Executive of North West Regional College
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Ulster University Crowned University of the Year 2024 

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The Ulster University winning team

Ulster University has been awarded ‘University of the Year 2024’, the most prestigious title of all by Times Higher Education. For the first time in the University’s history, Ulster University is recognised as the top higher education institution in the UK and Ireland.

Known as the Oscars of the UK university sector, the Times Higher Education annual awards celebrate the best of higher education in the UK and Ireland. The University of the Year accolade honours exceptional university performance, with this year’s award reflecting achievements during the 2022-23 academic year.

In September, Ulster University was shortlisted alongside five other top-ranking institutions: London Metropolitan University, University of Stirling, University of Leicester, University of Sunderland, and University of Surrey. The awards attract hundreds of entries each year from universities across all corners of the UK and Ireland, that exemplify the talent, innovation, and commitment of individuals and teams across all aspects of university life.

What the judges said

Ulster University was hailed as a “force for good in fostering peace, prosperity and cohesion” and took the top spot in recognition of its role as an anchor institution in a region that has undergone rapid change in the quarter-century since the signing of the Good Friday Agreement.

The award honoured the completion of Ulster’s £364 million Belfast campus, creating a vital connection to a historically underserved community, backed up with a schools programme designed to boost higher education participation among the city’s young males.

The judges were also impressed by the securing of a €44.5 million (£37 million) investment from the Irish government for the development of Ulster’s Derry/Londonderry campus, making it a groundbreaking cross-jurisdictional project.

The significance of such efforts to ongoing peace and collaboration were underscored by Ulster’s role as host to the US president, Joe Biden, on his visit to mark the Good Friday Agreement’s 25th anniversary.

The judges said these achievements “demonstrated the university’s growing influence and status in the island of Ireland, and as a force for good in fostering peace, prosperity and cohesion”.

2023: A momentous year for Ulster University

The top accolade recognises Ulster University for its ‘People, Place and Partnership’ strategy, which recommitted to maintaining a dual focus on research and teaching while driving social mobility and economic growth. The university’s commitment to putting the student experience at the heart, led to achieving its highest rank in the history of UK domestic tables.

In what was a momentous year, the university secured a multi-million-pound Shared Island investment in a new teaching and student services building in Derry~Londonderry, which is set to expand an already thriving hub for health sciences, interdisciplinary training and practice in the North West.  The campus is preparing to graduate the first cohort of doctors from the Graduate Entry School of Medicine next year and offers the first Paramedic Science course in Northern Ireland meaning that Ulster University’s Derry~Londonderry campus provides the most comprehensive higher education healthcare offering in the UK and Ireland.

Additionally, the University marked the completion of its new state-of-the-art Belfast city centre campus, one of the largest higher education capital projects in Europe, recently named Building of the Year by the Royal Society of Ulster Architects. A beacon of aspiration and an engine of innovation, the campus is transforming learning and teaching experiences while making a significant economic impact in the immediate area, across the city, and the wider region.

With a unique multi-campus model, Ulster University is also delivering on its ambition for an innovative drug discovery centre in Coleraine to complement the existing Biomedical Science and Pharmacology offering. An expansive, semi-rural facility based on the north coast, the Coleraine campus is home to new programmes such as Adventure Sports and Golf Management alongside Arts, Humanities and Education.

Marking the 25th Anniversary of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement

In the year of the 25th anniversary of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement the institution launched a one-of-its kind leadership programme, 25@25 which helped 25 graduates develop their full leadership potential. Ulster University’s vital role in Northern Ireland’s journey from peace to prosperity over the last 25 years was acknowledged by the President of the United States of America when he selected the University as his only visit to the UK in April 2023 to mark the milestone.

Alongside the achievements of 2022/23, the institution continued to operate with the student experience at its heart, achieving its highest rank in the history of UK domestic tables.

Ulster University Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Bartholomew said:

“We are incredibly proud and delighted to be announced as University of the Year by Times Higher Education. These prestigious awards attract hundreds of entries from top institutions across the UK and Ireland, and this recognition reflects the hard work of our staff and the support of our student community across our campuses. 

“I truly believe that Ulster University is an extraordinary organisation in every sense of the word, and in recent years we really began to realise our full potential. Ulster University is a research-led, people centric, community-focused and values driven institution that believes in equality, celebrates diversity and fosters inclusion.

“Today, we are a University of and for the world, attracting the attention of presidents, politicians and changemakers.

“As a multi-campus University uniquely positioned in Northern Ireland, we play a pivotal role in driving forward economic prosperity and growth that creates opportunities and improves the quality of lives across the whole of our shared region.  

“Our People, Place and Partnership strategy capitalises on that and emphasises our dual focus on research and teaching while driving social mobility. We demonstrate the belief that though we inherit our past, we chose our future, and it is our mission to ensure that all of our students have all the skills they need to make a difference in the world.”

Ulster University was previously shortlisted for University of the Year in 2021 by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide. In June 2024, the University was recognised as the highest-ranking UK university for outreach activities, and fifth in the world overall, in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024.

This year marked the 20th anniversary of THE Awards celebrated at a glittering gala ball held at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham on Thursday, 28 November. Ulster University’s recognition as University of the Year was one of 19 categories celebrated on the night

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Ulster University marks 40 years of computing in Derry~Londonderry

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Ulster University has brought together students, faculty, industry experts, and members of the local community to mark the milestone of 40 years of computing at its Derry~Londonderry campus.

In an anniversary celebration on 20 November, the School of Computing brought together stakeholders to explore current innovations and imagine what the future may hold for computing and wider society.

The day featured a Pitch and Judge competition for secondary school students across the North West who were challenged to ‘Envisage 2064’ and imagine what computing may look like, and how it will change society, 40 years from now.

With participation from over 60 students, the young people explored future transformative changes in technology, society, and sustainability through computing, before presenting for a panel of judges.

After four decades innovating from the heart of Derry~Londonderry, the School of Computing also opened the doors to the Intelligent Systems Research Centre for public tours that provided a glimpse into Ulster University’s ongoing projects and future aspirations, underscoring the University’s commitment to advancing technological innovation and contributing to breakthroughs that impact industries, healthcare, and daily life.

The event concluded with a public lecture by Professor Michaela Black, Professor of Artificial Intelligence at Ulster University, on ‘Demystifying the Hype of AI’.

Professor Black shared insights on AI’s trajectory, its societal impact and what the future holds in this exciting field, unpacking the often-misunderstood aspects of artificial intelligence, examining its societal impact, ethical implications, and the potential challenges and breakthroughs we may see in the years to come.

“I was delighted to meet up and share some insights of AI with colleagues and visitors celebrating this fantastic event. The excellent attendance highlights the great public interest in AI and the eagerness of everyone to share and discuss how citizens can benefit from responsible AI, delivering a collective good for all of society and the environment.
Professor Michaela Black,
Professor of Artificial Intelligence at Ulster University,

Ulster University is working to foster greater AI adoption in business through the Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre (AICC), a project based across Belfast and Derry~Londonderry and delivered in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast.

Launched as part of a £16.3 million investment by Invest Northern Ireland and the Department for the Economy in March 2024, the AICC is dedicated to advancing AI awareness and adoption among businesses in Northern Ireland, with a focus on ethical and responsible innovation.

This 40th anniversary celebration of Computing in Derry~Londonderry reflects Ulster University’s dedication to community engagement, academic excellence, and vision for the future. With events designed for schoolchildren, students, colleagues, industry professionals, and the broader public, the celebration highlights our inclusive commitment to computing and innovation. We look forward to an exciting future ahead for Computing at the University.
Professor Colin Turner
Pro Vice Chancellor & Executive Dean of the Faculty of Computing, Engineering & the Built Environment,
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Ulster University Derry~Londonderry Officially Launches Expanded International Nursing Competence Test Centre Addressing Workforce Shortages

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The Nursing Competence Test Centre at Ulster University is one of just five Nursing Midwifery Council approved CTCs in the UK.

Ulster University has officially opened the doors to its newly expanded and reimagined Nursing Competence Test Centre today, located at Foyle House in Derry~Londonderry. This significant development aims to address the growing global demand for nursing and midwifery healthcare professionals in the UK.

The Ulster University School of Nursing and Paramedic Science hosts and operates this vital Nursing Midwifery Council (NMC) Competence Test Centre (CTC) which has, over the years, expanded to meet growing demand.

Earlier this year the university purchased a new site that shares a border with the University’s Duncreggan Student Village, a very short walk from campus buildings, and began expansion plans.

The development will enable over 8,000 internationally educated nursing and midwifery candidates per year from around the world, to take their NMC Test of Competence Part 2 Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE) assessment in order to join the NMC Register of nurses, midwives and nursing associates.

The CTC on the Derry~Londonderry campus is one of just five NMC approved CTCs in the UK – and the only one in Northern Ireland, reflecting the University’s expertise and leadership in nursing.  First established in 2017, the test centre has not only helped to alleviate pressures on the health sector but has also become an economic driver for the North West with businesses across the city reaping the many benefits of increased visitor numbers.

Marking the significant expansion, Ulster University hosted a celebratory launch event at Foyle House. People from across the UK were welcomed to explore the new facilities, highlighting an important opportunity to support nursing capacity and alleviate pressures on the health service in the UK.

Esteemed guests included representatives from the NMC, Healthcare Trusts, the Independent Sector, the Royal College of Nursing, the Deputy Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Darren Guy, and Northern Ireland’s Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt.

Mr Nesbitt said:

“The test centre here at Ulster University has gained a reputation as the preferred choice for many candidates. This speaks volumes for the efforts made by Ulster University, not only to support the development of the workforce to meet the healthcare needs of our population, but also their unwavering dedication to academic excellence and professional integrity. 

“To the candidates embarking on this journey, I encourage you to view this Centre not simply as an examination stage but as a stepping stone towards a fulfilling career in healthcare. You are joining a community that values compassion, excellence, working together and openness and honesty. The skills you acquire here will not only be instrumental in your personal journey, but will enable you to make a significant contribution to Northern Ireland.”

Shahneela Grygiel, Assistant Director of Registration and Revalidation at the Nursing and Midwifery Council, said:

“We are delighted to be in Derry-Londonderry to explore the new Foyle House site at Ulster University. This expansion is good news for people who use health and care services, helping even more skilled and knowledgeable professionals from all over the world to join our register safely and quickly.  

“We’re seeing more nursing and midwifery professionals on the NMC register than ever before – 826,418. The expansion at Ulster University will play a vital role in this continued growth, enabling internationally educated professionals and those returning to practice, to provide the high-quality care everyone across the UK has the right to receive.”

About the CTC
Nurses and midwives are required to undergo comprehensive assessment in order to confirm their competency before they can practice in the UK. The designated test centre on the Derry~Londonderry campus delivers the OSCE, which tests candidates’ skills, knowledge and behaviours in a simulated practice environment. This is the final test that candidates must pass in order to gain registration as a nurse, midwife or nursing associate in the UK.   

With a responsive approach to meeting the needs of individuals and organisations, the School of Nursing and Paramedic Science at Ulster University facilitates much needed registered nurses and midwives, who have been recruited from overseas, in their journey to registration. This enables them to move forward in establishing their career in the UK whilst making a valued and essential contribution to the health of the public through their knowledge, expertise, and experience.   

Since opening in 2017, over 32,000 nurses from countries including Canada, Japan, Philippines, India, Africa, and Barbados have undertaken the OSCE at the Ulster University Competence Test Centre (CTC) and are now working in healthcare settings across Northern Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland.

Professor Carol Curran, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Life and Health Sciences at Ulster University commented:

“This significant development signifies our continued commitment to the Derry~Londonderry campus and our ambitions for momentum in development here. This allows us to expand our campus footprint into a neighbouring site and importantly, benefits the local economy in the North West by boosting international travel to Derry~Londonderry with associated bed nights in local hotels.” 

“Additionally, some 90 staff – most of whom are local nurses – are employed in the CTC as assessors and patient role players so this CTC allows us to support the local economy though employment too. We have plans for further recruitment now that our CTC has expanded on the Foyle House site.”  

Professor Neal Cook, Professor of Nursing and Head of School of Nursing and Paramedic Science said

“We are delighted to see our CTC provision expand from 12 to 20 testing bays at our new site, maximising the responsive provision to facilitating internationally educated nurses, midwives and nursing associates from all over the globe to enter the NMC live register. This enhanced provision will expand on our ability to support these nurses and their sponsors as well as provide our team with bespoke facilities to maximise the quality of our provision, complementing our continued commitment to a person-centred approach. The community support and hospitality the candidates receive on their visit to the city also enhances their positive experience. This is a team and service to be proud of, particularly given the impact on health services nationally”.

Ulster University has an international reputation for nursing excellence and is rated top 10 in the UK for nursing (QS World Subject Rankings 2023 and Complete University Guide 2024).

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Ulster University Hosts Celebration for Northern Ireland’s First Ever Paramedic Science Students

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On 22nd August, Ulster University marked a historic moment for Northern Ireland, as the first cohort of BSc Hons Paramedic Science students celebrated ahead of graduation in December 2024 from the region’s first ever BSc Paramedic Sciences programme.

Forty students attended an official celebration ceremony, recognising their successful completion of all elements necessary to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). This milestone marks their readiness to contribute significantly to the future of healthcare delivery across Northern Ireland.

With funding support from the Department of Health, the three-year course launched in September 2021 with 40 students and three dedicated lecturers. Due to its growing popularity, the programme now accommodates 130 students across all year groups and boasts a teaching team of 10 academics. This expansion emphasises the courses’ vital role in supporting Northern Ireland’s healthcare workforce and easing pressures on the health service.

Throughout the course, students completed a comprehensive range of academic modules focused on the fundamentals of emergency and urgent care. They completed 60 weeks of practice-based learning in various community health and social care settings, hospital services, and ambulance services.

In addition to classroom-based learning, students benefited from hands-on experience within Ulster University’s cutting-edge facility Skills Suite featuring hospital wards, clinical rooms, and a unique simulated ambulance custom-built for the School of Nursing & Paramedic Science at the Derry~Londonderry campus – the only one of its kind in the region.

Graduates have developed the knowledge, skills and behaviours necessary to become a competent and confident paramedic who provides safe person-centred care.

This groundbreaking course, based within multi- award-winning School of Nursing & Paramedic Science is a significant step forward in the development of the paramedic profession in Northern Ireland and beyond. Until 2021, aspiring paramedics from Northern Ireland were required to travel to the south of Ireland or across the Irish Sea to complete a BSc Hons programme in Paramedic Science.

Ben Malone a student on the course always wanted to be a paramedic since the age of 8 years old after his Nanny experienced a stroke, he remembered feeling relief and reassurance as the Paramedics arrived, he said:

“I’ve always wanted to be a paramedic. We have been at the forefront of this programme, pioneering its development over the past three years. The friends I have made, skills and knowledge I have learned from expert lecturers and the experience I have gained through practice learning, will stand to me in years to come.

“Whilst it has been challenging and demanding at times, both academically and throughout practice learning, I am glad to say that I have successfully completed the course, passed all modules and received a conditional offer of employment from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service HSCT (pending my registration in the coming weeks).  “I look forward to what the future holds, embarking on a career as a paramedic and witnessing the success of future cohorts from the BSc programme at Ulster University.”

Professor Neal Cook, Head of School of Nursing and Paramedic Science at Ulster University said:

“We are immensely proud of our paramedic science students reaching this important and historic milestone as the first cohort to graduate with their BSc Hons Paramedic Science. Their success is testament to their dedication to the profession and their studies and also testament to the support and expert education they have received from their course team and practice partners, without whom we could not deliver this quality provision. The success of their programme is the culmination of valued partnerships and collaborative endeavours across a spectrum of stakeholders, including all six health and social care trusts in Northern Ireland as well as the Department of Health and the independent and voluntary sectors. We have every faith that these graduands will have long and impactful careers as paramedics, we are so proud of their achievements”.  

Mr. Andrew Chambers, Course Director BSc Paramedic Science at Ulster University said:

“Despite often being the first, and sometimes the crucial medical contact for people within the community, paramedics have lacked the credibility that they deserve.  However, the introduction of this degree programme and the recent elevation of paramedics to Allied Health Profession (AHP) status helps to further cement the position of paramedics as healthcare professionals in their own right, capable of operating across a wide variety of healthcare environments.  The students from our course represent the future of the paramedic profession and the wider Health Service here in Northern Ireland and I have no doubt that with the diverse learning opportunities they have received as part of this programme that they will go on to have a profound impact on the delivery of prehospital care within the province for years to come.”

Neil Sinclair, Chief Paramedic Officer, Northern Ireland Ambulance Service said:

“We are delighted to join Ulster University, and all of the other partner organisations, in congratulating the first cohort of UU Student Paramedics as they complete their BSc (Hons) programme. They have been on a journey through academic and practice-based learning over the past 3 years, and they will soon embark on the next phase of their careers as they transition into employment. We are looking forward to welcoming many of them to NIAS in the very near future; where they will be able to utilise the knowledge and personal attributes they have developed over the last 3 years, alongside their new colleagues in NIAS, to provide the best possible pre-hospital care to people across all of Northern Ireland. The arrival of this large number of highly-skilled new recruits will bring benefits and welcome support, not only to NIAS, but across the entire health and social care system, and most importantly to the local community.”

If you are interested in studying BSc Hons Paramedic Science at Ulster University Derry~Londonderry, or would like more information on the course, please visit – Paramedic Science BSc (Hons) at Ulster University 2024/25 entry – Full-time Undergraduate Study

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Mayor welcomes students from Goodenough College community

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The Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue, welcomed a delegation of PhD students from a special London College community to the Guildhall on Friday for a special reception.

It’s the first time that students from Goodenough College have visited the city as part of a wider cultural enrichment programme. Goodenough College is an educational charity providing award winning postgraduate student accommodation in the heart of London’s university district.

The College aims to provide a supportive community for over 700 international postgraduate and their families from over 80 different nations. It benefits students through a programme of intellectual, cultural and social activities that gives students access to an international network and nurtures a global outlook. 

12 students arrived in the city as part of a trip aimed promoting their understanding of N. Ireland, and in particular Derry, including its history and culture. While they are here the group are staying at St Columb’s Park House and visiting a number of local sites.

Welcoming the group to the City, Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue, said: “I am always delighted to welcome young people to Derry and to share some of our wonderful heritage and culture. We have a strong connection with the City of London in terms of promoting skills and education, and this was another opportunity to discuss our shared interests and the many benefits of living, learning and working here.

“The students really enjoyed their visit to the Guildhall, where they had the chance to ask questions about local politics, peace-building and how Derry has been positively transformed over the years. They were also impressed to learn more about the city’s development as a leading hub for research and innovation excellence particularly in the areas of AI, data, health, and industry 4.0 technologies.”

Travelling with the students are the Dean of the Goodenough College, Alan McCormack originally from N. Ireland, who is also chaplain to the Lord Mayor City of London and Catherine McGuinness (fellow of Goodenough College and former Policy Chair, City of London).

Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue, pictured with a delegation from Goodenough College, London, held in the Mayor's Parlour. Seated on her left is Alan McCormack (Dean, Goodenough College) and on right Catherine McGuinness CBE (Chair of the policy & resources committee, City of London Corporation). Standing on the right is Adam Goodall, Investment Project Officer, DCSDC. (Photo - Tom Heaney, nwpresspics)
Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue, pictured with a delegation from Goodenough College, London, held in the Mayor’s Parlour. Seated on her left is Alan McCormack (Dean, Goodenough College) and on right Catherine McGuinness CBE (Chair of the policy & resources committee, City of London Corporation). Standing on the right is Adam Goodall, Investment Project Officer, DCSDC. (Photo – Tom Heaney, nwpresspics)
 
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Northern Ireland’s largest 5G testbed in Derry-Londonderry set to supercharge smart manufacturing

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Local technology consortium Smart Nano NI, formed to further the development of smart manufacturing in Northern Ireland, has today launched the largest 5G testbed in Northern Ireland in Derry-Londonderry, marking a significant step in a five-year plan to accelerate smart manufacturing in the country. 

Led by consortium partner Digital Catapult, the UK authority on advanced digital technology, the 5G testbed is the organisation’s latest innovation activity to bolster economic growth and investment opportunity in Northern Ireland. The investment by the Smart Nano NI consortium will create a valuable, open access facility and provide expert technical support to local start-ups and businesses through the Digital Catapult Smart Nano Accelerator Programme.

The ground-breaking testbed facilities will be delivered by the global IT and business consulting services firm CGI, in partnership with Digital Catapult Northern Ireland. The cutting-edge 5G and 4G private network is a first-of-its-kind smart manufacturing and education setting in Northern Ireland, providing access to the latest network technologies including 5G and NarrowBand-Internet of Things (NB-IoT), and will be instrumental in upskilling the next generation of innovators and experts across the country. 

William Revels, Managing Director at Digital Catapult Northern Ireland, said, “This is an exciting milestone for the project as we bring access to the latest 5G technology to both industry and academia and enable businesses to take advantage of the substantial market opportunities offered by 5G. Derry-Londonderry will be the ninth 5G testbed in Digital Catapult’s nationwide network and we’ve seen the opportunities that can be opened up from providing the equipment and in turn de-risking innovation.” 

RELATED: Smart Nano NI launches Smart Manufacturing accelerator programme to empower Northern Ireland manufacturers

The development of these facilities follows CGI’s opening of a new delivery centre in Northern Ireland as part of its commitment to developing skills and talent in the region. Volkan Pakoglu, Director Consulting Services at CGI, added, “The integration of this new 5G platform will demonstrate the value of creating mobile private networks within business by taking full advantage of the power, performance, and connectivity of 5G. We are committed to working together with Smart Nano NI and its partners to support and facilitate innovation, sustainable solutions and use technology for good.” 

The smart education site at the Industry 4.0 Centre in the Northwest Regional College’s Springtown Campus, will give both students and industry access to test and explore new use cases of the 5G private network, while the manufacturing site, hosted at Seagate’s manufacturing facility, will give businesses the opportunity to test the technology in a live manufacturing setting.

Dr Fergal Tuffy, Business Support Centre Manager at North West Regional College, said, “We are delighted to have the 5G testbed installed at our Springtown Campus, adding to our automation and robotics equipment at the Industry 4.0 Centre. This exciting collaboration will allow us to support students and businesses to gain skills and knowledge to take advantage of the opportunities that these cutting-edge technologies present.”

As part of today’s announcement, Digital Catapult have also launched an open call for the latest Smart Nano Accelerator Programme, giving businesses access to the 5G testbed for the first time. The Manufacturing Innovation Challenge is inviting innovative Northern Ireland start-ups and SMEs to join the programme and submit ideas for new technology solutions to solve manufacturing challenges.

Following the completion of the programme, the participating Northern Ireland-based companies will have the opportunity to compete for a £75,000 grant from Techstart Ventures to continue to develop their business idea. Funded through Techstart’s Proof of Concept Grant Fund, this pre-commercial grant awarding fund supports entrepreneurs in Northern Ireland with grants to explore the viability and commercial potential of an innovative concept. 

Kathleen Garrett from Techstart Ventures said, “We are delighted to have partnered with Digital Catapult, Seagate and the Smart Nano NI consortium on this Manufacturing Innovation Challenge. We look forward to seeing the innovations develop through the accelerator programme and have no doubt that some exciting businesses will be formed during this process with the support & guidance of the accelerator and the £75k grant funding from ourselves.”

Jason Wiggins, Programme Manager for Smart Nano NI, added: “The combined investment in infrastructure, the Smart Nano Accelerator programme and the Techstart competition creates a supportive environment for companies to develop and test new technologies. This collaboration will deliver new business resources to Northern Ireland and will drive growth and innovation across many sectors”.

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Ulster University’s Talent Hub Grand Finale Showcases Next Generation of North West Leaders in Style

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Over 100 students and employers took part, pitched for placements and event featured a live podcast hosted by Caroline O’Neill, founder of DiggforSuccess with FinTrU’s Executive Director, Greg McCann.

Ulster University Business School celebrates the next generation of North West leaders who successfully completed the 2023 Talent Hub, concluding the programme in style with a Grand Finale event at the Great Hall at Derry~Londonderry campus this week.

‘Talent Hub’ is an innovative initiative, co-designed with key industry partner FinTrU and in collaboration with The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, aimed to connect talented students with local employers to help them foster professional networks, whilst committing future talent to the North West region.

Nearly 100 Global Business and Enterprise students participated in a series of four co-designed workshops, collaboratively created between Ulster University Business School and North West businesses. These workshops equipped students with essential skills, knowledge, and networking opportunities, enhancing their potential employability and ensuring skill alignment with employer needs in the working world.

As part of the event, the ‘Pitch for Placement’ segment saw the business students showcasing their talents to a captivated audience of over 20 local employers and business leaders such as FinTrU, Alchemy, Fujitsu, Kainos, Deloitte and Bio Ledger, from the North West region and beyond, all contending for the opportunity to secure a 12-month work placement within these organisations.

Throughout the Talent Hub series, students honed their personal and organisational awareness. The workshops emphasised active learning and applied skills, encouraging authentic engagement with business leaders to meet the agile demands of today’s working world. Students also had the chance to visit FinTrU’s newly renovated Patrick Street office, gaining first-hand experience of corporate culture, and developed communication skills during an interactive round table networking event.

At the event, Caroline O’Neill, founder of DiggforSuccess, hosted a live podcast with FinTrU’s Executive Director, Greg McCann, discussing company culture, collaboration in the North West, and ways businesses can elevate the profile of the next generation of leaders.

Caroline spoke of her collaboration with The Talent Hub:

“It is so exciting to work with the Talent Hub and see first hand how a difference is being made in the lives of students by training them with the skills needed to nurture their talents and improve their confidence and self belief. I truly believe the impact that the Talent Hub has will have a ripple effect for years to come as students embark on life outside of university in the world of work.”

Dr Aisling Reid, Lecturer in Business Enterprise at Ulster University and founder of The Talent Hub, said:

“I am so proud of what the Talent Hub has become through co-design and support from local employers. It plays a core role in the North West talent pipeline, connecting future talent with established leaders. By building strong partnerships with North West businesses, we are aligning to business needs to develop agile students with professional confidence. The Talent Hub has become a community with a sense of belonging. Together we are celebrating and harvesting talent in the North West region. We have exciting plans to develop the concept further.“

Ulster University student Aoife McCloskey shared her thoughts following completing Talent Hub:

“I am so grateful to have had this opportunity. It has given me a hands-on approach, encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone whilst remaining in a safe environment. It opened my horizons to various businesses I wouldn’t have previously been familiar with and at the same time allowed me and other students the opportunity to make some incredible networking connections that will help us when gaining placements- an invaluable experience and opportunity.”

Greg McCann, FinTrU Executive Director said:

“FinTrU are delighted with the work of the Talent Hub and the partnership with UU. The nurturing of graduate talent is essential for FinTrU’s growth plans and it is fantastic to be involved with this innovative initiative in the North West. It is a great example of what University/Business partnerships can deliver to help grow the NW economy.”

Senior Talent Partners at FinTrU, Keith Toland and Erin King added:

“The Talent Hub has provided FinTrU a platform to foster an interest for Financial Services in the North West region whilst positively influencing and supporting the employability of local graduate talent at Ulster University. We commend the students on their ambition, enthusiasm, and participation throughout the workshops and have welcomed their applications for our 2024 Placement Programme. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Ulster University and the Talent Hub.”

Anna Doherty, CEO of The Derry/L~Derry Chamber of Commerce said:

“The Derry Chamber is delighted to work so closely with Aisling and her team on the development of Talent Hub, especially at a time when growing skills and a sustainable talent pipeline has never been more important for business. The Talent Hub is a key initiative from UBS which brings businesses and students together to learn from each other. We look forward to continuing this collaboration to support a thriving Northwest economy.”

Local businesses are encouraged to get in touch with Dr Aisling Reid, Ulster University  to get involved in the next ‘Talent Hub’ taking place in 2024 as we grow our reach and impact in the North West region.

Email ar.reid@ulster.ac.uk to find out more.

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New Open University office at North West Regional College’s Strand Road campus

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North West Regional College (NWRC) has officially cut the ribbon on a brand new Open University (OU) office at their Strand Road campus in Derry~Londonderry.

The office, adjacent to NWRC’s Careers Academy, is the OU’s first official premises in the North West and strengthens a partnership between the two organisations which saw the validation of two OU higher education level courses in September 2023.

During the official opening on Thursday, Dr Catherine O’ Mullan, NWRC Director of Curriculum and Academic Standards, handed over keys for the new office to John D’Arcy, Director of The Open University in Ireland.

Dr O’ Mullan said: “Today is another exciting chapter in this unique educational partnership. We are delighted to welcome The Open University to our Strand Road Campus with its own office and base in the North West.

“NWRC is committed to growing and developing our curriculum, offering something really different and much needed within the North West region.

“Our partnership with The Open University is the culmination of extensive diligence and hard work from both organisations, as well as significant consultation with employers, over the past two years. It complements the existing partnerships we have with other Higher Education Institutions in the region and has allowed us to add to our portfolio of courses, providing a more diverse offer related to areas of skills gaps .

“But this is just the beginning. We intend to grow our Higher Education curriculum offer at NWRC and hope to announce details of further developments in specialist subject areas with The Open University in the future.”

John D’Arcy, OU, added: ”The Open University is proud to officially move into our new office at NWRC allowing us to work even closer with staff and students. We have worked hard with NWRC Senior Management to provide this level of choice and provision of higher education and I am delighted to see the students on our Foundation Degree in Cyber Security and Level 4 Certificate in Healthcare Practice courses performing so well since they first began in September 2023. This partnership will continue to grow, and we look forward to seeing what 2024 will bring to the North West region and further afield.”

Applications are now open for all Higher Education courses beginning at NWRC in September 2024, including the OU Foundation Degree in Cyber Security (full and part-time), OU Level 4 Higher Education Certificate in Healthcare Practice, and OU Foundation Degree in Housing Practice. Further details of additional courses presently being approved by OU will be made available in due course.

For more information visit www.nwrc.ac.uk/higher-education

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Ulster University hosts prestigious European Parliament John Hume exhibition

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To mark the twenty-fifth anniversary year of the Belfast Good Friday agreement, Ulster University welcomes an exhibition for the first time to Northern Ireland, to celebrate one of the occasion’s principal architects, John Hume. In partnership with the European Parliament Liaison Office in the UK and The John and Pat Hume Foundation, the exhibit which launched yesterday evening in Derry~Londonderry, will embark on a year-long tour across the university campuses including Coleraine and Belfast.

The display also honours twenty-five years since Hume was jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize with David Trimble for their efforts to find a peaceful solution to the conflict in Northern Ireland. The exhibition, “He made hope and history rhyme” takes inspiration from the words of fellow Nobel prize winner and friend, Seamus Heaney.

Professor Cathy Gormley-Heenan, Provost Ulster University expresses:

“As our year long programme of events reflecting on the Belfast Good Friday agreement draws to a close, its only right that we return again to the architects of change that were instrumental in bringing about the peaceful times that we live in– with all the opportunities and potential they created. We are delighted to partner with the European Parliament Liaison Office UK and The John and Pat Hume Foundation to host this prestigious exhibition at Ulster University. As a son of the city, it is fitting that the exhibition launches its 2024 tour of all our campuses across the region in his home of Derry~Londonderry”  

“An MEP for quarter of a century and European of the Year, Hume worked tirelessly to broker peace and reconciliation in his native land. The everyday injustices of life in the north and especially in his divided hometown led Hume to join the civil rights movement in the 1960s and to forge a philosophy encapsulated in this quote: “Difference is of the essence of humanity. Difference is an accident of birth and it should therefore never be the source of hatred or conflict. The answer to difference is to respect it. Therein lies a most fundamental principle of peace: respect for diversity.”

Susanne Oberhauser, Director of the European Parliament Liaison Office in the UK comments;

“John Hume never tired of reminding us how the peace process in Northern Ireland has been so heavily inspired by the example of the European Parliament and the European project. As he liked to recall: “The union of Europe was the inspiration for our [Good Friday] agreement. The first time I went to Strasbourg in 1979 as a Member of the European Parliament, and I went to neighbouring Germany, I thought that if, in 1945, someone had said that these two countries would be reunited in Europe and that Strasbourg would be the symbol city of this hope, they would have been sent to the psychiatrist. The European Union is the best example of conflict resolution in the history of the world. All the regions at war must study the way in which Europe was built.” Thus, this project is particularly dear to our hearts and we are honoured to contribute to the remembrance of his legacy.”

Tim Attwood, Foundation Secretary, John and Pat Hume Foundation states:

“The John and Pat Hume Foundation welcome this excellent opportunity to partner with the European Parliament Liaison Office UK and Ulster University to showcase John Hume’s work as a Member of the European Parliament and the fact that the mission of the European Union inspired his courageous journey to build peace and reconciliation in Ireland through dialogue, partnership and bridge-building.  

“Two days short of John Hume’s eighty seventh birthday and fifty years after Ireland officially became a member of the European Economic Community (EEC), it is our duty to keep faith with the Hume principles, keep his dream of peace and non-violence alive and inspire current and emerging courageous leaders for peaceful change, at home and in conflicts internationally, who will chart a better way forward and build a more just and prosperous future for all  our children.”

The exhibition features panels with highlights of Hume’s role in the peace process alongside a bronze bust, one of only five specially commissioned pieces created by Ballymena born sculptor, Liz O’Kane. The remaining busts are installed at the Irish embassies in Washington DC, London, the European Parliament in Strasbourg and Leinster House in Dublin. After the tour of Ulster University’s campuses this piece will take up residence in the Guildhall in December 2024. Alongside the exhibition is a creation by Dublin tapestry artist, Catherine O’Connor whose grandparents hail from Derry~Londonderry. The tapestry, commissioned by friends of John and Pat Hume shines a light on Pat and the strength of her relationship with John and her integral role in the peace process.

The exhibition is free and open to the public from Wednesday 17 January – Friday 29 March and is located on the ground floor lobby of the MU building, Derry~Londonderry campus.

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