Ireland welcomes students as colleges prepare to reopen; Indian students can apply until end of July

Last updated Jun 15, 2021

DUBLIN: The Department of Education may soon announce the procedures for reopening college and university campuses in Ireland. Steps are being taken to resume studies in colleges and universities by the third week of September.

The Government’s decision on admission to college and university campuses is expected to meet the hopes of all students, including Indians, who are awaiting admission.

Minister for Higher Education Simon Harris will submit a detailed outline to the Cabinet in this regard. Students are expected to be welcomed into the new academic year by adopting adequate safety measures and limiting the number of participants.

The plan specifies that laboratory learning, classroom teaching, tutorials, workshops and short lectures will be held on campuses. College offices, workplaces and libraries will also be reopened.

Canteens, sports facilities, clubs and societies, and bars will also reopen in accordance with public health guidelines. Large-scale lectures are also expected to be permitted.

The Government has asked educational institutions to prepare a detailed report on the new academic year by July. The Government hopes to make the necessary changes based on this in the future.

Arrangements will also be made to intensify the vaccination program for students and staff. Efforts will also be made to raise symptom awareness among students, learners, and staff. Colleges are also expected to provide facilities such as rapid antigen testing or PCR testing for symptomatic students and staff.

During the summer months, there will be provision for further and higher education and training, including on-site presence for apprentices, English language education, and the resumption of research activities.

International students, particularly those from India, are in crisis as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even some students’ education loan applications have not been approved as their parents are out of work due to the pandemic. And for those who have applied, approval is delayed due to the closure of visa offices.

All of these factors have caused a delay in the admission of international students who were expected to finish their studies in Ireland before June. Most universities have extended the application deadline to the end of July.

Job Possible Courses in Ireland

Those who complete their studies in construction, electrical, environmental engineering, finance, hospitality, mechanical engineering, artificial intelligence, data analyst, aviation engineer, and software development are offered jobs and apprenticeships to stay in Europe. Insurance, logistics, auxiliary engineering, international financial engineering, and international financial services are also potential areas for apprenticeship and employment.

Universities in Ireland are gearing up to provide all kinds of facilities for international students who come to study as the COVID crisis subsides.