Minister Lawless outlines his vision for higher education, research and skills at IUA Future of Ireland event
-
From: Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science
- Published on: 12 May 2025
- Last updated on: 13 May 2025
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless today outlined his vision for higher education, research and skills to be foundational pillars for Ireland’s economic strategy at the IUA Future of Ireland event.
In his keynote speech, Minister Lawless said:
“Ireland’s greatest strength lies in our people, and in the ideas and talents that they bring forward.
“My vision is to advance a step change in research and innovation, strengthening our skills base and providing high-quality and accessible higher education.
“During my tenure as Minister, I intend to place a particular emphasis on strengthening Ireland’s research performance. I think that this will be critical if we want to maintain and enhance our global competitiveness, drive innovation and create sustainable jobs.”
The Minister also stressed the importance of talent development, adding:
“If research fuels innovation, then skills drive the realisation of that innovation. They are vital to our resilience and social cohesion. I would like to see learners realise that they can make even more ambitious choices, and I would like to see more graduates choosing to pursue their curiosity and start something new.”
The event was opened by IUA Director General, Jim Miley, who said:
“We are very encouraged by the Minister’s prioritisation of investment in research and in talent and skills. Our universities are willing partners with government to ensure that the next phase of Ireland’s economic and social development is underpinned by a globally competitive talent and innovation base.”
Established in 1997, the Irish Universities Association (IUA) is the representative body that promotes and advocates for the shared strategic priorities of Ireland’s seven research-intensive, enterprise-engaged, public universities. IUA is shaped by its role as the collective voice of some of Ireland’s leading universities, its collaborative approach to policy and innovation, and its strong emphasis on a sustainable higher education funding model, internationalisation, and industry engagement.
