Editorial: An economic bulwark to our community - Waterford college marks 120 years of education
Lora Smite, Kayla King and Katelyn Long, who graduated from WCFE in Animal Science and Grooming, receiving their certificates from Tutor Fabin Flood and Mayor of Waterford City & County Cllr Liam Brazil. Photo: Joe Evans
Waterford College of Further Education is preparing for a year-long series of events in celebration of 120 years of the centre of education, which has provided career paths for countless Waterford people.
Situated at the heart of the community, on Parnell Street, Waterford College of Further Education is often taken for granted, part of the city landscape. The role it plays, however, cannot be underestimated.
It is a crucial cog in the positive workings of community and economic life in Waterford city and environs.
As described in Erin Gahan's story in this week's edition of the Waterford News & Star, the college has long adapted to the business and community needs of Waterford people.
Originally named the Central Technical Institute, it first opened its doors on Monday, September 17, 1906, created in an effort to centralise technical education in Waterford, and its surrounding areas, and to give working class people a chance to gain new employment opportunities.
It has responded to numerous challenges faced by the Waterford population over the years, including the shock closure of Waterford Crystal at Kilbarry on the Cork Road in Waterford city in 2009.
Stepping into the breach, at a time of desolation for many, the college provided hope and possibility, through the powerful opportunity of retraining and upskilling.
Alongside our coverage of the exciting year planned in celebration of this momentous milestone, we also feature graduation photos in this edition of the newspaper, as the current graduates from WCFE step out confidently into the working world with their qualifications. These photos often feature mature students, pictured together with their families, for whom WCFE has provided new avenues, engendering economic resilience.
As Michelle Daly, Head of Art and Media at the college, said: "I don't think there's a family in town who hasn't been in touch with us here at some point."
As part of its celebrations, the college is holding an open day this Thursday, with the emphasis being placed on those students, families and businesses, who have benefitted through the life of the college, providing a 'living archive' through the sharing of stories and memories.
The Waterford News & Star would like to take this opportunity to wish all the students and staff at Waterford College of Further Education continued success as it embarks on the next 120 years, with many more wonderful chapters yet to be written into its illustrious history.
