NUI Galway and the Atlantic Technological University have been awarded over €200,000 each to support autistic students and those with an intellectual disability.
Minister for Further Education Simon Harris announced today that NUIG will receive 213,000 and ATU will be allocated €206,000 as part of the proposed new National Access Plan.
The funding may be used to create autism friendly campuses through wayfinding apps, new signage and autism-friendly spaces such as sensory rooms or quiet zones.
In 2022, the funding can also be used to train staff, developing inclusive teaching, learning and assessment practices.
Welcoming the funding, Galway Senator Seán Kyne said that this is “an important step in making our Third Level sector more inclusive and there will be further funding offers to implement these changes over coming years.”
Also speaking today, Minister of State for Disability Anne Rabbitte said that people with disabilities in Ireland have equal rights of access to education, but there is much more work to be done.
“The work Minister Harris is doing, as evidenced in today’s launch, represents excellent progress in this regard,” said the Galway East TD.
“The New Action Plan is a key piece of work in Ireland’s overall efforts to achieve the objectives of the convention.”
