University of Galway has announced the extension of the Máistir Gairmiúil san Oideachas (MGO) bursary scheme for student teachers.
All student teachers who undertake the MGO programme at the University will receive an award of €2,000 per year, funded by An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta.
The MGO is a two-year Irish immersion Professional Master in Education programme, an initial teacher education programme that prepares teachers for Irish medium secondary schools.
Minister of State for Sport and the Gaeltacht Jack Chambers welcomed this ‘important development’ for student teachers who undertake the programme at University of Galway.
He said that it will ensure more highly skilled and exceptionally qualified teachers for Irish language medium schools.
“This development complements work by my department across a range of areas to support teaching through our language in Gaeltacht schools.
“I congratulate University of Galway on the extension of this scheme and look forward to the benefits it will bring for the teaching through Irish.”
Speaking at the launch of the bursaries, Jacqueline Ní Fhearghusa, Chief Executive of An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta, said that they are delighted to extend the number of bursaries available for student teachers.
“We understand only too well that there is a recruitment crisis across gaelcholáistí and scoileanna sa Ghaeltacht, which is a huge strain on principals and wider school communities,” she said.
“An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta recognises the importance of the MGO programme and the vital role it plays in providing suitably qualified teachers for the Irish medium schools.
“We are very pleased to be able to provide continued and extended support to the MGO in recognition of their work in this sector.”
Applications are now being accepted for the Máistir Gairmiúil san Oideachas through Postgraduate Applications Centre at www.pac.ie.
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