The ITB (Institute of Technology Blanchardstown) has announced that it is to offer 128 places on four technology-based courses free to jobseekers.
By Robert Carry
The Dublin 15 college revealed that funding for the programmes will be provided by the Department of Education and Skills, and successful applicants will not be required to pay tuition fees.
The scheme, which is part of the Government’s Labour Market Activation Initiative, means places on four of its technology based courses, set to kick off this September, are on offer to people who are currently unemployed.
Tom Doyle, head of development at ITB said of the new funding, “ITB is very pleased to be part of this initiative to support those who are presently unemployed and it is a continuation of our efforts in this area for the past two years.
“Further programmes are currently being planned to help people re-skill particularly those who have lost jobs in the construction and retail sectors of whom there are significant numbers in the catchment area that we serve.â€
The four courses covered under this scheme are:
Digital Creator
A foundation course on digital media skills aimed at those who want to add this competence to their CV or may wish to progress to higher level courses in digital media.
Higher Certificate in Sustainable Electrical Technology
A one year programme aimed at holders of an Advanced Craft Certificate in Electrical. Completion of this programme will quality graduates to fill an appropriate technician role within the sustainable construction or manufacturing industries.
Certificate in Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing
A one year course for Engineers or technicians who wish to update their skills in this critical discipline.
Certificate in Creative Web Technology
A one year programme aimed at those with some technical competence who now wish to develop specific skills with a view to employment in the digital media sector.
128 places are available across the four programmes and the closing date for applications is Friday 3 September at 4pm. They can also be handed in person at the ITB Open Evening on Thursday 2 September between 4 and 7pm. Applicants can download application forms here.
In order to be eligible for these or any Labour Market Activation (LMA) programmes, applicants must be in receipt of their Jobseekers Allowance of Jobseekers Benefit continuously since 20th June 2010 or before.
Eligibility for a programme does not automatically entitle you to the Back To Education Allowance (BTEA). Normal qualification criteria applies for the Back to Education Allowance.
ITB directly serves the greater Blanchardstown area and the north and west of Dublin City and county. Like other Institutes of Technology, it also draws students from neighbouring counties, such as Meath, Kildare, Cavan and Louth as well as from further afield.
For further information on BTEA click here.
