Higher Education must be open to everybody - Empey

Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, today stressed the importance of ensuring that higher education is accessible to everyone, regardless of their social background.

The Minister was speaking at an awards ceremony in West Belfast for the recipients of this year’s Aisling Bursaries, which is supported by the Department for Employment and Learning.

The Aisling Bursaries, launched in March 2000, is an educational initiative between the West Belfast Partnership Board and Belfast Media Group. Over the past eight years £336,500 has been distributed to 329 aspiring learners from the west of the city.

Speaking at the ceremony, Sir Reg said: “I am pleased that my Department was able to provide support for this year’s Aisling Bursary recipients. There are many benefits to be enjoyed through higher education, both for a student and society as a whole.

“My Department is committed to ensuring that higher education is made accessible to all and the work of the West Belfast Partnership Board, through the Aisling Bursaries, sits neatly with that objective. The initiative is a credit to the businesses and sponsors who recognise that investing in our students is an investment in everyone’s future.”

Sixty full-time and part-time bursaries will be awarded this year with 40 sponsors and donors providing funds this year of £45,000.

Geraldine McAteer, Chief Executive of the West Belfast Partnership Board, said: “The Aisling Bursaries represent a unique commitment by West Belfast and citywide businesses to the development and progression of local people here in the west of the city. Through their generous donations, the business sector are directly empowering Aisling recipients to secure education and training qualifications which will enhance their career prospects and build their personal development. West Belfast is proud of the business donors, proud of the Aisling recipients and delighted that Sir Reg has underpinned the Aisling Bursary scheme in 2008 with government support.”

Notes to Editors:

1. Media enquiries to Department for Employment and Learning Press Office on 028 9025 7872. Out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715440.