Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) and Maynooth University (MU) have launched a new partnership with the aim of advancing higher education in the region.
The Regional Graduate Academy (RGA) will see PhD students being taught and supervised in Dundalk but being awarded their PhD by the university.
Students will be jointly registered in both DkIT and MU and undertake a structured PhD programme.
The PhD programmes currently on offer fall into six disciplinary areas: computer science; biology; environmental science; electronic engineering (renewables); applied social sciences; and media studies.
There are 16 post-graduate students enrolled in the first year of the MU-DkIT RGA. This number is expected to grow over the coming years, particularly following recent successful funding applications.
The launch of the RGA marks the first milestone in the strategic collaboration between DkIT and MU after both third-level institutes signed a letter of intent in June of last year.
Those involved have said the initiative aims to identify new ways the two institutes can collaborate for the benefit of students, academic staff and the wider community.
In addition to the establishment of the RGA, DkIT and MU have said they are developing collaborations in other areas, including research and innovation, student experience initiatives, and the potential provision of MU awards to DkIT Level 8 and 9 students.
'New kind of partnership'
Maynooth University President Professor Eeva Leinonen said the MU-DkIT RGA represents a new kind of partnership between third-level institutes.
Prof Leinonen said: "DkIT is a natural partner for Maynooth University, with complementary strengths and a shared commitment to regional impact and research excellence.
"Together, we are building a collaborative model of doctoral education that is rooted in place, shaped by purpose, and driven by ambition - delivering real benefits for our students, our communities, and the broader research ecosystem."
Meanwhile, President of Dundalk Institute of Technology Dr Diarmuid O'Callaghan said: "Our first cohort of students are already making their marks on the research landscape.
"This collaboration is a wonderful opportunity for each institution to showcase its individual strengths and explore together how we can strategically develop to serve our regions.
"Through our shared values, unique offerings and collective commitment to regional partnership and collaboration, I have high aspirations for the future opportunities it will bring for our students, enterprise and everyone in the shared region," Dr O'Callaghan added.
CEO of the Higher Education Authority Dr Alan Wall said the body is committed to supporting the strategic development of higher education institutions.
He said: "Provision was made in the Technological Sector Advancement Fund (TSAF) for institutions to explore strategic collaborations that are aligned with national and regional policies and priorities.
"It very encouraging to see the progress made by DkIT and Maynooth University on the Regional Graduate Academy, and this initiative is an important milestone in the strategic engagement of these higher education institutions.
"The MU-DkIT Regional Graduate Academy is a tangible example of how collaboration can enhance Ireland's higher education and research system locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally," Dr Wall said.
Meanwhile, speaking at the launch event, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless said the RGA marks a new and significant phase of collaboration between two "strong" institutions.
He said: "This partnership is to be commended. It reflects a shared commitment to building research capacity, strengthening ties with enterprise, and supporting the development of local communities, while enhancing the national research and innovation ecosystem.
"I welcome that this initiative has been supported by my department through the HEA and the Technological Sector Advancement Fund. It demonstrates what can be achieved when we invest in talent, partnership, and regional development," the minster added.
