Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science, Síle de Valera, T.D., today attended the annual graduation ceremony for Mallow College of Further Education in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow, Co. Cork.
Speaking at the graduation today, Minister de Valera said:
"Mallow College of Further Education is the largest provider of further education in North Cork, with 300 students enrolled in its wide range of post-leaving certificate courses including students from a number of EU countries. It is very encouraging to see such a mix of students availing of the great facilities on offer here in Mallow College."
"Ireland, as we all know, is experiencing profound change, economically, socially and culturally. In addressing the challenges of this change, a prime objective has to be to encourage and support individuals to achieve their full personal potential and to become active in the economy in this increasingly technology driven age."
"Over the years Mallow College of Further Education has earned a deserved reputation for the quality courses it offers."
"PLC colleges form an important source of supply of people with skills to serve the Irish economy. Courses are aimed at preparing students both for employment and for progression into other areas of education and training."
"Your college has an excellent relationship with the business community in Mallow and surrounding areas with the result that many of your past students have been successful at gaining employment locally following their studies."
"PLC programmes are now a critically important feature of the lifelong education continuum. For young people looking to enhance their qualifications and employment prospects, for those seeking an alternative route of entry into higher education and for adults wishing to return to learning, the PLC route offers invaluable opportunity."
"I would like to congratulate each and every one of the recipients of awards on this important achievement in your lives, for which you should feel justifiably proud."
ENDS