Supports to address digital divide for third level students

The new scheme of €15 million Sen O'Reilly FG believes will help address that digital divide and give students the tools to continue their education.

A significant package to assist third level institutions with reopening and help end the digital divide will benefit students has been welcomed by local Fine Gael Senator Joe O’Reilly.

The €168 million package will ensure our third level institutions have the necessary tools to return to education in a safe manner and ensure all students can access remote learning.

“Throughout the pandemic, further and higher education never closed,” said Sen O'Reilly. “Even during the most restricted period of the pandemic, institutions and providers continued to provide education through emergency remote learning.

“We need to support them now as students seek to return in September. This significant financial package for our third level institutions will assist with their safe re-opening.

“In addition, significant further supports are being put in place for students, including increasing student supports, access to mental health services and a new scheme aimed at helping students with access issues.”

Sen O'Reilly stated that many students have difficulties accessing devices such as laptops or tablets, while some can’t access WiFi and others need assistance in using the devices for college work.

The new scheme of €15 million he believes will help address that digital divide and give students the tools to continue their education.

Funding will also be provided for research projects that could not be completed during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The package today responds to the serious financial impact of Covid-19 on third level education but it also provides supports to meeting the student and learner requirements,” continued Sen O'Reilly. “A critical requirement has been identified for students and learners who are experiencing difficulty in accessing course provision and completing assessment owing to not having access to devices.

“This cohort are the most vulnerable students who need assistance and support to remain in education and complete their studies,” he added.