A further education and training initiative for people with epilepsy which is based in IT Sligo has won a prestigious AONTAS national STAR award.
Minister for Training and Skills Ciaran Cannon presented the five category awards at a ceremony in the Burlington Hotel, Dublin, when “Training for Success” scooped the Nationwide section prize for “outstanding contribution to adult learning”.
The initiative is the only one of its kind in Europe in which a third level college and a voluntary organisation have linked up to address exclusively difficulties that people with epilepsy face.
The year-round programme, which tackles employment and educational needs among people with epilepsy, is delivered at IT Sligo in partnership with Epilepsy Ireland.
“We are thrilled. Just delighted,” said Honor Broderick, the course manager. “We were up against some really good projects. It’s great to get the recognition. The publicity and the kudos we’re getting from it mean that many more people will now get to hear about the course. It’s a programme that has made an enormous difference to many people.
“It is also a marvellous validation of the course and IT Sligo’s very progressive decision to embrace it. A wonderful boost, too, for Epilepsy Ireland and FÁS, which funds the course.”
Around 250 people attended the event including members of 35 organisations shortlisted for the STAR (Showcasing Teamwork, Awarding Recognition) awards, which are co-ordinated by AONTAS, the national adult learning organisation.
As well as creative and academic topics, Training for Success provides a tailored individual focus on career choices, educational and employment goals, identification of up skilling needs, and the nature and management of epilepsy. The programme leads to a FETAC Level 4 Major Award in Employment Skills
Berni Brady, Director of AONTAS, said: “The Award winners demonstrate that further education and training can be of great assistance in helping to reduce unemployment by creating pathways for adults to secure employment or to even to set up their own businesses. However, it’s also clear that these initiatives are doing much more than just that. They are helping to improve people’s physical health, providing valuable community services and breaking down the stigma of mental health difficulties.”
The STAR awards were introduced by AONTAS to recognise outstanding work in adult education. AONTAS estimates that approximately 300,000 adults take part in some form of education each year, including second chance education.
Caption for above pic: Minister Ciaran Cannon presents the Award.
Caption for below pic: Celebrating the STAR Award win are (l – r) David Gillick student, Paul Sharkey, Epilepsy Ireland, Maire Tansey course facilitator, Denise O’ Connell student, Honor Broderick, course manager
