SETU partners with council for Learning City initiative

SETU has partnered with Waterford City and County Council and the Waterford and Wexford Education Training Board (WWETB) in Waterford’s rollout as a UNESCO Learning City.

Per the UNESCO website, a Learning City refers to a city that 'effectively mobilizes its resources to promote inclusive lifelong learning for all. Learning cities aim to revitalize learning in families and communities, facilitate workplace learning, and extend the use of digital technologies to enhance education.'

Laura Power will be appointed as Learning City Project Manager as part of the initiative, working to coordinate partner programmes under the UNESCO Learning City programme.

The launch of the partnership was held at the Waterford Treasures Medieval Museum in mid-October.

“This initiative represents a transformative opportunity to strengthen educational access, foster innovation, and build a thriving, inclusive learning community across Waterford and the wider region,” said President of SETU, Prof. Veronica Campbell.

“Through our leadership in lifelong learning, regional partnerships, and the development of Glassworks, an innovation campus, SETU will enhance the availability of a skilled, flexible, well-educated workforce for the economy and will be at the heart of a UNESCO Learning Region in the southeast,” she continued.

Chief executive of Waterford Council Sean McKeown said the move solidified Waterford’s reputation as an international educational hub.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan said it was a proud day for the city.

“Through the collaborative efforts of Waterford City and County Council, SETU and WWETB, lifelong learning opportunities will now be more accessible and attainable than ever,” Mayor Ryan said.

“This people-centred, learning-focus approach will not only consolidate Waterford as a learning city, but it will also lessen the inequalities within disadvantaged and marginalised communities across the region.”