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1 Mar 2021

National Winners of Prestigious Adult Learning Awards Announced

The winners of the AONTAS STAR Awards were announced online today (1.3.2021). The STAR Awards (Showcasing Teamwork, Awarding Recognition) are an awards initiative organised by the national adult learning organisation, AONTAS, to recognise and celebrate the work undertaken by adult learning initiatives throughout Ireland.

The national winners announced today are:

Commenting on the STAR Award winners, Niamh O’Reilly, CEO of AONTAS, said: “I’m delighted to award these fantastic initiatives for the outstanding work they are doing in the area of further education and training, adult and community education. During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic these organisations are continuing to provide essential supports and services to those adult learners most in need. “

“The work these organisations do is benefitting the individual learner, their families and their local communities. The STAR Awards is an opportunity for them to be recognised for their positive impact on society.”

Colm O’Regan, author, broadcaster and comedian will MC as special online celebratory event on Thursday, 4th March to acknowledge the outstanding contribution that all of the shortlisted STAR Award projects have made to the adult and community education sector.

The STAR Awards form a key part of the AONTAS annual Adult Learners’ Festival. Over the past fifteen years the Festival has become a firm fixture in the Irish adult learning calendar, showcasing the range of learning opportunities available across the country and encouraging adults to try something new. The 2021 Adult Learners’ Festival is AONTAS’ first ever virtual Festival. With the COVID-19 pandemic still ongoing, a programme of events will take place online. A key focus of this year’s Festival is on collaboration and the theme of #BetterTogether.

The STAR Awards are proudly sponsored by the Open University in Ireland and the Open College Network Northern Ireland (OCNNI), the Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI), Concern Worldwide, Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) and the European Social Fund (ESF). Sponsors will be offering special prizes to all 2021 STAR Award winners.