Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim ETB looks to the future at annual conference
Delegates from Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (ETB) attended the annual Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI) education conference in Cork City Hall last week.
The theme for this year’s conference – ‘The ETB of the Future’ – explored key topics such as the role of AI and technology in education, the importance of inclusion and diversity, and what learners want for the class of 2033.
The event brought together over 300 representatives from across the sector and featured a line-up of over 40 speakers. Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Niall Collins, opened the conference on September 27, giving the official ministerial conference address.
Commenting of the future of education, general secretary of ETBI, Paddy Lavelle, commented: “As we reflect on 10 years of ETBs in Ireland, it’s time for us now to look to the future and focus on what lies ahead for our sector. Ireland is changing, and it’s important that we move to adapt with it.
“We need to plan ahead and give real thought to who our learners of the future are: what skills do they need; how do they need or want to be taught; and how can we ensure that we are delivering education to learners of all levels in Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim and across the country that meets their needs and the needs of their future employers?
“It will come as no surprise that we have heard throughout the conference of the potential for technology to revolutionise education – for both the teacher and the learner. However, it’s important that we also highlight other key considerations that will be vital in the future of education.
“As Ireland continues to become a more diverse and inclusive country, it is essential that we ensure that we have the infrastructure in place to support all learners – regardless of any disability, race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation.
“Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim ETB and Education and Training Boards across Ireland are already providing multidenominational, coeducational and equality-based education and training services, so are well placed to expand on this delivery and meet potential increased demand.
“The learners of the future are tech-savvy, culturally diverse, environmentally conscious and adaptable. It is our responsibility now to ensure that the classroom of the future evolves to support them on their learning journey.”
The conference took place over two days, with a full line-up of keynote speakers and panel discussions. Some of the highlights from the agenda included inputs from Joanne O'Riordan, disability activist, writer and broadcaster; John Lonergan, writer and former governor of Mountjoy Prison; Anna Artemyeva, head of Google for education, UK and Ireland; Niall Collins TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Skills and Further Education; and Bernie McNally, secretary general of the Department of Education. More information on the conference can be found here.