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Minister attends Masters (Msc) in voluntary sector management graduation

Thursday, 24 January 2008

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA today attended an award ceremony to present certificates to Masters Graduate’s in Voluntary Sector Management.

The graduation ceremony was held at the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action’s (NICVA) building in Duncairn Gardens, Belfast. Congratulating graduates at the ceremony, Minister Ritchie said: “I am delighted to be here today to recognise your commitment to your own personal development and your dedication to providing effective leadership within your respective organisations. It is to your credit that you have achieved academic success whilst continuing to do your day job.”

The Minister continued: “I am a keen supporter of the work of the voluntary and community sector. I believe that the sector continues to make an invaluable contribution to society here.

“There are, as we all know, challenges ahead. Nevertheless Government and the Sector must continue to work together to meet the needs of those in our society who are most disadvantaged.

“The skills you have gained and importantly, the networks that you have established through participation on this course, will help to equip you as leader in your organisation to meet and address these challenges. My department stands ready to work with you as we move forward.

“Meeting these challenges will require strong and effective leadership from all sectors.”

The Minister acknowledged the financial support provided by Atlantic Philanthropies for the training programme and the partnership between NICVA and Cass Business School.

Notes to Editors:

  1. The MSc in Voluntary Sector Management is a Masters programme specifically designed for the voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland. This MSc programme has been delivered by the Cass Business School, City University of London.
  2. Since September 2004 34 senior managers have participated in this exciting venture and have had the opportunity to interact with managers from the voluntary and community sector throughout the UK and internationally.
  3. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on028 9082 9078 mobile 07970 976 894. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.