Students with an intellectual disability graduate from Trinity

TWENTY-four students with an intellectual disability last night celebrated graduating from an innovative certificate programme at Trinity College Dublin.

The second graduate class in the Certificate in Contemporary Living programme toasted their success last night on the famous campus.

The two-year course is run by Trinity College’s National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID) and is the first full-time course of its kind in the country.

It has also been the subject of interest from representatives of European universities, who have expressed an interest in following the model in their countries.

This year’s class of 24 is larger in number than the first group of graduates and college authorities have expressed delight at how the programme has evolved.

The course content includes modules in English and spoken communication, mathematics and financial management, social studies, international awareness, music, art and drama.

However, it also allows students the chance to attend some mainstream lectures in subjects which interest them.

NIID director Dr Patricia O’Brien said: “People with intellectual disabilities are one of the most marginalised groups in Irish society.

“Specifically with regard to education, the abilities of people with intellectual disabilities have been underestimated and as a result their potential has often remained dormant.

“It is internationally recognised that lifelong learning is an essential requirement if full participation and inclusion is to be achieved.

“Through NIID’s pioneering Certificate in Contemporary Living, we have developed a course which aims to enable the development of the full potential of the students with intellectual disability.”

Since completing their studies the students have gone on to work in various areas, including office administration, catering and hotel work, while others have pursued further study in areas such as information technology, expressive arts and sports management.