Harkin in Netherlands and Belgium as part of Government’s St Patrick’s Day programme
Minister Marian Harkin
Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Marian Harkin has begun a visit to the Netherlands and Belgium as part of the Government’s Saint Patrick’s Day programme.
The programme of engagements will work to strengthen Ireland’s collaboration with the Netherlands and Belgium across the areas of further and higher education, skills development, and sustainable innovation.
Speaking ahead of the visit, Minister Harkin said: “This visit presents a significant opportunity to enhance Ireland's relationships with the Netherlands and Belgium. By focusing on future skills, green innovation, and cultural exchange, we aim to ensure sustainable growth and educational advancement for all."
Minister Harkin, who has responsibility for apprenticeships, construction, and climate skills, began the visit by meeting Enterprise Ireland client companies in Amsterdam under the theme ‘Irish-Dutch Collaboration for a Greener Tomorrow and Future Skills.’
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Minister Harkin will engage with key stakeholders in The Hague, including faculty and students, at two major higher education institutions. At The Hague University of Applied Sciences, Minister Harkin will connect with Irish and Dutch faculty and students to foster academic exchange and collaboration. The Minister will also discuss the Lifelong Catalyst Programme at the Technical University of Delft.
Minister Harkin will highlight the importance of skills education and the shared ambition to advance skills in sustainable construction and infrastructure at ROC Mondriaan School of Construction & Infrastructure.
In Brussels, Minister Harkin will visit the Enseignement de Promotion et de Formation Continue (Further Education Training Centre). The discussions will focus on best practices in adult education and lifelong learning, reinforcing Ireland’s commitment to upskilling and reskilling in line with EU priorities.
Minister Harkin remarked: "In the face of a rapidly changing global landscape, fostering these partnerships is essential for achieving sustainable growth and educational progress for everyone.
"My engagements in the Netherlands and Belgium underscore the Irish Government's commitment to deepening collaboration with European further and higher education partners."
