51±ľÉ« has welcomed the announcement by Minister Patrick O’Donovan that will see the establishment of a new direct entry undergraduate medicine programme.
Acting President Professor Shane Kilcommins welcomed the announcement by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Patrick O’Donovan TD, which was made at UL this Friday.
The Minister announced a major increase in healthcare places through the creation of six new programmes around Ireland, using funding from the National Training Fund – including a direct entry medicine programme at UL.
“It is with immense pride and enthusiasm that we welcome the announcement by Minister O’Donovan regarding the introduction of a new direct entry undergraduate medicine programme at 51±ľÉ«. This significant development underscores the University’s pivotal role in the region and our unwavering commitment to advancing education and healthcare,” said Professor Kilcommins.
“51±ľÉ« has long been a beacon of excellence in the health sciences, and this new expansion in the delivery of undergraduate medicine is a testament to our dedication to innovation and quality in education. We are proud to expand our offerings and provide students with the opportunity to pursue their medical education directly, fostering a new generation of skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals.
“The introduction of this course comes at a crucial time when the need for doctors in the workforce has never been greater. By increasing the number of trained medical professionals, we are not only addressing a critical shortage but also enhancing the overall health and well-being of our communities. This initiative will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the healthcare landscape, both locally and nationally.
“We are deeply grateful for the vote of confidence that this expansion represents. It is a recognition of the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff, and students, and it reinforces our position as a leading institution in the field of health sciences.
“We look forward to welcoming the first cohort of students and supporting them on their journey along with the wider health sciences students who will go on to become the healthcare leaders of tomorrow.
“I would like to thank to Minister O’Donovan, his department and the Higher Education Authority for their continued support and for entrusting UL with this important responsibility. Together, we will continue to strive for excellence and make a meaningful difference in the lives of many.”
Professor Deirdre McGrath, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Education & Health Sciences, said: “I wish to extend my gratitude to the Government and Minister O’Donovan for their forward-thinking approach to medical education in Ireland and for further investing in the UL School of Medicine to strengthen our national healthcare workforce.
“I would also like to express huge thanks to our School of Medicine team for delivering a direct entry, undergraduate, medical degree programme to our university. Today's announcement highlights UL’s steadfast dedication to producing high-quality graduates and aligns with our faculty’s mission of graduating exceptional healthcare professionals.
“The School of Medicine’s graduate entry medical degree programme has produced over a decade of graduates, sought after both nationally and internationally. New direct entry students enrolling at UL, therefore, can trust that the knowledge, skills, and behaviours they develop will thoroughly prepare them for their roles as doctors.”