New agency SOLAS is a positive development for further education
27 Jul 2011 12:10 PM
The introduction of Solas, the a new further education and training authority, was described as 'a positive development' for further education today by AONTAS Director Berni Brady.
The new agency which will replace FÁS will be responsible for an integrated approach to the provision of further education and training in Ireland. 'For far too long, there has been an unnecessary separation between further education and training' said Ms Brady. 'This integration will ensure less duplication and ultimately easier access to a range of education and training opportunities for adults who wish to take up learning opportunities. This is critical as we face the challenge of long term unemployment.'
'This is more than window dressing, it lays the foundation for an overarching structure for the management and co-ordination of further education and training services which was envisaged over ten years ago in the White Paper 'Learning for Life' she continued.
Minister Quinn announced that SOLAS will have a greater focus on training and education programmes, preparing job seekers for occupations in new growth areas. 'In doing this, it is important to recognise the wider benefits of learning' she cautioned. 'Our own research has found that programmes within further education provide additional benefits beyond skills for employment. For example research shows that community education courses delivered by VECs and community groups result in benefits that are just as important as skills - these include greater levels of volunteering, active citizenship and breaking the cycle of educational disadvantage. For many people with lower skills, community education is the gateway to further education and eventually employment. We encourage the Minister to recognise a diverse vision of further and education and training.'
'We look forward to the development of the Action Plan and working closely with the Department of Education and Skills and the Implementation Group' she concluded.
ENDS
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