Dundalk Institute of Technology (DKIT) has unveiled a €10 million initiative designed to address regional skills shortages and align training with the changing needs of employers across Northern Ireland and the Republic’s border counties.

The Skills Enhancement and Cross-Border Advancement (SECBA) project brings together higher and further education institutions with industry partners, supported by PEACEPLUS funding. Running until October 2028, it aims to train more than 2,500 participants through 185 certified programmes, with a wider target of 3,000 recruits across the project.

Collaborating institutions include DKIT, Southern Regional College Newry, Monaghan Institute, Cavan Institute, and Workplus. Together, they aim to build a future-ready workforce through courses in software development, biopharmaceuticals, business, and sports—areas identified as key to regional competitiveness.

The project’s objective is to close the gap between educational output and industry demand by developing practical, employment-oriented programmes. Erin McGreehan, Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Further and Higher Education, highlighted the initiative as a model for innovation-led collaboration that strengthens economic ties across the border.

DKIT President Dr Diarmuid O’Callaghan noted that the partnership reflects a shared effort to future-proof the workforce against technological disruption while enhancing opportunities for upskilling and innovation.

The initiative’s integrated approach is expected to stimulate growth, improve employability, and build a stronger talent pipeline for industries facing transformation pressures in both jurisdictions.

Stay ahead of developments in cross-border education partnerships by reading the full report on this initiative.