Ministers urge students to act now for scholarship opportunities

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane and Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey have launched this year’s All Ireland Scholarships Scheme for students here.

The annual scholarships, funded by businessman JP McManus and now in their second year here, provide financial assistance to top-performing students from low income households who intend to take up higher education places in the coming autumn. The value of each scholarship is £5,500 per annum.

The Ministers also stressed that time is of the essence as all school sector applications must be received by 31 August 2010.

Commenting, the Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, said: “These scholarships represent an opportunity to those who might not be able to afford access to third level education. The skills and qualifications acquired through higher education can broaden horizons and prospects, benefiting not only the individual but also our wider communities. This year the JP McManus trustees have extended the criteria to include GCEs from all awarding bodies for schools and BTEC National Diplomas for Further Education Colleges, meaning these scholarships will be accessible to more young people.

“Last year saw a low number of applicants from our non-selective schools, which was disappointing given the high calibre of students from this sector. I have written to all Principals asking them to highlight these awards and to bring them to their students’ attention and I would encourage all eligible students to apply. Once again I commend JP McManus for his foresight in supporting these scholarships, helping students to follow their chosen career paths.”

Welcoming the scholarships the Minister for Employment and Learning, Sir Reg Empey said: “In an increasingly competitive global economy it is important that all young people, irrespective of their socio-economic background, have the opportunity to access the best that our tertiary education systems can provide. Through the provision of this scholarship 25 Northern Ireland students, who otherwise may have been unable to access higher education, will have the chance to become the best they can be.

“I am pleased that the criteria have been extended to include the BTEC awards, which are being provided through the Further Education Colleges.”

The Minister continued: “The 25 awards provide due recognition for individual academic achievement and valuable financial support to facilitate a secure start to a career in higher education and beyond.

“The vision and practical support of people like JP McManus from the world of business shows that philanthropy can make a real difference to the lives of students looking to gain all the benefits from our higher education system.”

Notes to editors:

1. Nineteen Scholarships will be made available to students from Post-Primary Schools and six Scholarships to students from Further Education Colleges. A minimum of two Scholarships will be offered in each county, based on where the student resides.
2. For further information please visit the Department of Education or the Council for the Curriculum Examinations and Assessment websites.
3. All media enquiries to the DEL Press Office, telephone 028 9025 7872 or the DE Press Office, telephone 028 9127 9701. Out of hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.