CIT and IT Tralee apply to become Munster Technological University
Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) and the Institute of Technology Tralee (ITT) have submitted a formal application to the Minister for Education, Joe McHugh, to seek designation as the Munster Technological University (MTU).
An independent advisory panel will evaluate the application by visiting the two institutions and make a recommendation to the Minister. The decision is likely to be made before July.
Lionel Alexander, Chair of the Governing Body at IT Tralee, said: “The submission of our application for TU designation represents a significant milestone for both institutions and all those involved, whose hard work and commitment over the last five years has brought the project to this juncture”.
Bob Savage, Chair of the Governing Body at CIT, added that both governing bodies are proud of both institutes' histories, people; staff, students and stakeholders.
"Together, we now look forward to the future and the creation of MTU and the considerable benefits to staff, students, citizens and economy of the region”.
Dr Oliver Murphy, President of IT Tralee said: “The formal submission to the Department of Education and Skills is a key landmark on our journey to designation as a TU. The MTU will serve as a catalyst for the future development of the region.
"MTU will be a centre of excellence in education, research and engagement. Supporting entrepreneurial activity will be central to the MTU mission and this focus on entrepreneurship will open a world of opportunities for all our stakeholders”.
Dr Barry O’Connor, President of CIT, added: “Our submission envisions a Technological University with a national and international profile, providing profession-focused programmes of education and training, along with leading-edge multi-disciplinary research together with national and international partners. Partnering with industry, community and the arts, MTU will seek out dynamic cross-sectoral relationships with its stakeholders. MTU will continue to invest in the future with state-of-the-art research, education, enterprise, cultural and sports facilities”.
They hope that the MTU will enrol its first students for the academic year 2019/2020
