New boss to help ITs reach new status

A former higher education boss has been appointed to try to direct the institutes of technology in Waterford and Carlow back on track for a joint application for technological university status.

Education Minister Jan O’Sullivan had to intervene after WIT unexpectedly suspended the merger with IT Carlow last month. She has asked Michael Kelly to lead a consultation process aimed at getting support from management, staff, and students for the project at both colleges.

WIT was understood to be pushing for technological university (TU) designation alone — concerned that a joint venture might take at least five years to reach the high standards set in 2012 by the Higher Education Authority (HEA).