Tag: skills

Ireland Chapter of PMI launches new AI Innovation Hub

The Ireland Chapter of the Project Management Institute (PMI) today announces that it is launching a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) Innovation Hub.

Developed to serve as a central hub of AI expertise and education, it will equip the project management profession with the knowledge and skills to integrate AI technologies across their organisations.

By enabling project management professionals to leverage AI in their roles to better manage AI projects, the hub will deliver efficiency and automation to organisations. It will also help to address the challenges associated with AI usage, from ethics to governance.

In turn, companies of all sizes and across all sectors will be empowered to adopt and implement AI – which has the potential to support innovation, boost competitiveness, and drive growth.

This initiative ties in with the significant investment that PMI has made globally in AI over the past 18 months. This includes the creation of an AI platform called PMI Infinity, an AI-powered project management solution designed to strengthen expertise, streamline complex tasks, and maximise project success.

Sponsored by business and IT consultancy emagine and set to officially launch on February 13th, the AI Innovation Hub in Ireland will host a number of events throughout 2025, from lunch-and-learns and webinars to hackathons. These hackathons will see project management professionals deploying AI tools to address specific challenges.

Overseeing these activities is an AI Working Group within the Ireland Chapter of PMI – led by Declan Foster, the newly appointed Head of the AI Innovation Hub. In his role, Declan will leverage his consulting background and experience with his own startup to promote the adoption of AI and enable change management.

Alongside Declan, the AI Working Group includes technical experts, thought leaders and data consultants across multiple sectors such as construction, property and business. The Ireland Chapter of PMI hopes to further grow this group from its now 3,500-strong membership base.

Peter Glynne, President of the Ireland Chapter of PMI, said: “AI is such a hot topic and there’s a lot of talk around it. The aim of our AI Innovation Hub is to cut through that noise and guide the project management profession through this time of AI change, whilst supporting them to deliver AI change over the coming years. Through collaboration and education, we want to help drive real impact with these fast-evolving technologies across all sectors.

“The reality is that every industry needs to be across AI and tuned into the latest developments, such as agentic AI. By tapping into such trends – not just from a knowledge-sharing perspective but practically in our day-to-day jobs – we can enable AI innovation and leadership for the profession, for other sectors, and for Ireland as a whole.”

Gillian Whelan, CEO of emagine, added: “At emagine, we’re empowering our clients to achieve their ambitions by harnessing the transformative power of technology and AI. By sponsoring the AI Innovation Hub, we are proud to support the next wave of innovation, enabling individuals and organisations to unlock new opportunities and excel on their AI journeys.”

For more information on the AI Innovation Hub launch event, please visit pmi-ireland.org

Guide to Start a New Career in Tech (Even Later in Life)

Countless people feel like changing careers, and there are plenty of reasons for this. They’ll also have more than a few other careers they could be interested in. You could be in this position and want to start a career in tech. It’s easy to see why.

That doesn’t mean it’ll seem like an easy process, though. You mightn’t know where to start. Usually, it’s not just a matter of starting to apply for jobs.

You’ll need to put a bit more time and effort into it. That doesn’t mean it has to be complicated, though. Instead, it could be more straightforward than you’d think. You might just have to take the right steps, and you’ll have nothing to worry about.

Some of these could have more of an impact than others, making them more than worth focusing on.

Why Start a New Career in Tech?

You’ll have plenty of careers you could consider, so you might wonder why you should start a new career in tech. The most obvious reason is that it’s an area you’re interested in. That could be more than enough to persuade you to give it a go. It’s far from the only reason it’s appealing, though.

It offers multiple other benefits, too. Some of the more interesting – and tempting – of these are:

  • Salary – Perhaps the most tempting reason to get into tech is the salary. Tech workers at all levels can expect quite a large paycheck every month. It’s one of the main reasons people consider getting into the tech industry.
  • Flexibility – Working in the tech industry is more flexible than many others. You’ll have the option to work from almost anywhere. Even companies that offer hybrid working can be more appealing than office-only industries.
  • Culture – The culture in the tech industry can be much more relaxed than many other fields. This can be one of the more tempting reasons to consider it, especially if you don’t like workplaces that are quite formal.
  • Diversity – The tech industry has a diverse employee base, but that’s not the only way it’s diverse. There’s a wealth of job types out there, and you could find some of these more interesting than others.
  • Advancement – The tech industry is growing constantly, which is great for the people working in it. This offers the possibility for a lot of growth and advancement in the industry. There’s no reason why you couldn’t take advantage of this.

These can be more than enough to persuade most people to start a new career in tech. To actually see them, though, you’ll need to actually break into the field.

This can seem quite complicated, especially considering the various parts of the tech industry you can get into. It doesn’t need to be overwhelming, though. Taking the right steps could be more than enough to help with this. They’ll end up helping you get into tech faster than you’d think.

Five of these steps can be worth focusing on.

Start a New Career in Tech: 5 Steps to Take

1. Take a Look at Your C.V.

One of the first steps you should take is to take a hard look at your C.V. It helps to give you a strong idea of what your skill set is and whether or not there’s anything you’ll need to learn going forward. Start off by focusing on any transferable skills and experience you could have already.

After that, it’s a matter of figuring out what areas you need to work in to break into the tech industry. It’ll help you more than you’d think.

It gives you a firm idea of what you need to do going forward. See it as a way to come up with a gameplan. You’ve no reason not to make this one of the first steps you take with your new career.

2. Consider Learning New Skills

There’s a decent chance you’ll need to learn some new skills before you can start a new career in tech. Taking a hard look at your C.V. helps you figure this out. This doesn’t always have to mean you have to go back to college full-time, though. Instead, you could learn more than a few of them online.

Most of these are more affordable than attending college full-time. You can even do them from the comfort of your own home.

The benefits of an online MBA are well-known, and you can fit this around your schedule. It’s worth looking into the most relevant courses for you and your new career. Once you’ve completed it, you’ll be in a better position to find a job you love. The process doesn’t even need to take too long.

3. Start Networking

You’ll already have a strong network of friends and other professionals in the career you’re already in. While these can help you in a specific career, they mightn’t be able to help you break into tech. It could be more than worth starting to network with professionals in the tech industry.

This can help you moving forward more than you’d think. They could give you advice, and even point you in the right direction for job opportunities. While this takes a little time, it’ll be more than worth it.

4. Build Mentoring Relationships

It’s always worth having a mentor in your career, as they can help you get started in it and grow into your career. When you’re trying to break into tech, this is especially recommended. It’s just a matter of finding someone who’s willing to mentor you when you’re starting out in tech.

Going with someone who’s been in the tech industry for years is recommended. They’ll have a wealth of advice they could give you.

While it could take some time and effort to find someone who’ll have the time to mentor you, it’s worth it. Make sure to follow their advice and ask plenty of questions when you’re with them. You’ve no reason not to.

5. Go to Career Fairs

You’ll eventually get to a point where you’ll start applying for jobs in the tech industry. That doesn’t always have to mean looking at jobs websites and hoping for the best. Going to career fairs with a lot of tech companies involved can be more than recommended. It offers more than a few benefits.

These will all make it more than worth it. You could end up having a better chance of getting a job with them.

You can actually engage with companies that are hiring and find out more about them. This gives you the chance to stand out from other potential applicants, and you could even get some advice while you’re at it. You’ve no reason not to go to a few of them while you’re applying for jobs.

Wrapping Up

Countless people consider changing careers, and it’s easy to see why so many of them do. They’re fed up with their current job, and they don’t see any potential career progression. You could end up in this position and want to make a change.

You’ll have plenty of other options ahead of you. You could want to start a new career in tech, and you’ll have more than a few reasons for this.

While this seems complicated, it doesn’t have to be. By following the right steps, it could be easier than you’d think. You’ll just have to be willing to put the time and effort into it. It’ll pay off dividends once you start your new career.

How Can Smart Gadgets Help You Improve Your Online Gaming Skills?

In online gaming, strategy and tactics are as important as the tools that players typically use. Smart gadgets use some of the most advanced technology available to make your gaming better and even improve your skills.

From enhancing reaction time to designing a virtual environment, these devices will help you gain the upper hand over your opponents. At the same time, they make gaming a fascinating task.

Enhancing Reaction Time and Precision

Smart gadgets, such as gaming mice and keyboards, are designed to be smart and, more importantly, fast. They are faster than the common peripherals; hence, less time is taken between input and output. This results in faster and more accurate inputs.

Features such as programmable buttons and a comfortable shape for hands are useful for gamers to improve their efficiency during battles or any other competitions.

Moreover, surround sound gaming headsets give a player an edge since they can determine the position of the opponent or any sound within the game.

Optimizing Online Gameplay

It becomes easier to play smarter with online gaming by using smart gadgets, especially on sites such as 666 lottery.games. All these platforms do not only offer world-class games but also are compatible with the current gadgets. For example, a high-speed gaming router can minimize the latency and enhance the connection to ensure seamless gameplay.

If you’re playing for leisure or involved in programs that yield rewards, having smart devices can improve the gameplay by providing better performance and ease of access.

Creating an Immersive Gaming Environment

Other smart gadgets, for example, virtual reality (VR) headsets and advanced monitors, enhance the immersion feature. Virtual reality headsets enable gamers to become part of the game by offering a 360-degree experience. This experience enhances the player’s understanding of the environment and lets them know how best to navigate through it.

 On the other hand, a high-resolution display with high refresh rates ensures that every frame is very clear to the eye. This gives players the ability to respond to events happening in the game with great precision.

Smart lighting systems are also used to control the colors and the effects of the lighting to match the events in the game to create a good atmosphere to work in.

Supporting Strategy and Learning with Smart Gadgets

Wearable technology such as smart watches, can keep tabs on the physical and psychological state of the gamer during a game. For instance, they can monitor heart rate, which assists players to be calm during a game. Such insights can help gamers choose their playing style and keep them at their best throughout the game.

In addition, other AI-integrated devices, such as smart assistants, can offer real-time suggestions and alerts that can assist gamers in analyzing their gameplay and identifying areas where they made mistakes and ways to correct the same.

Smart Gadgets for Enhanced Team Communication

One has to be in sync with other players, and smart gadgets make this easy in online gaming:

  • Headsets with noise cancellation enhance effective interaction with other gamers in the               team.
  • Built-in microphones reduce the background noise.
  • It can handle team chats in the course of a game.
  • Mobile gaming controllers allow for on-the-go strategic planning.

Advanced technologies are revolutionizing online gaming by increasing accuracy, increasing immersion, and boosting strategic development. Thus, using these tools, gamers can improve their abilities and become winners in the competition.

 

 

MTU and CompuCal Announce Partnership to Equip Thousands of STEM Students across Southwest Region with Cutting-Edge Industrial Digitisation Skills

Cork-based software company, CompuCal Calibration Solutions, has partnered with Munster Technological University (MTU) to deliver a forward-thinking program that will benefit Science, engineering and manufacturing students across the Southwest region. This collaboration aims to prepare students by enhancing their digital skills to enable digitisation of paper-based current and future processes within instrumentation, processing and manufacturing sectors by offering a real-world digital technology experience and solution, helping them tackle the evolving challenges.

As part of this partnership, CompuCal’s innovative calibration management software has been integrated into MTU’s Department of Physical Sciences full time and industry focused part time Instrumentation and Calibration programme offerings, supporting modules on process control and instrumentation, calibration and asset management. These programmes will certify students in digital calibration, instrument maintenance, commissioning, and validation, positioning them to thrive in the data-driven, process-controlled industrial environments of tomorrow.

MTU delivers approximately 1,500 STEM students annually, comprising approximately 10% of the national STEM cohort in Science & Engineering disciplines. This collaboration will provide these students with practical, hands-on experience using CompuCal’s latest technology, simulating real-life operational challenges that engineers and technicians encounter in the manufacturing industry.

This type of collaboration enables indigenous industry, which includes both SMEs and MNCs, to become globally competitive by partnership with companies such as CompuCal who have developed innovative solutions to meet the challenges of digitisation in modern industry.

Donal Sullivan, CEO of CompuCal Calibration Solutions, welcomed the partnership, “In the highly regulated world of Biopharma, MedTech, and FMCG, calibration maintenance of assets is critical to keeping operations running smoothly. We are delighted to contribute to equipping Ireland’s future engineers and technicians with the skills needed to meet the challenges of advanced manufacturing. MTU’s leadership in adapting its curriculum to meet industry needs is crucial in shaping a workforce ready to face the rapidly evolving global manufacturing environment.”

Through this collaboration, MTU students will gain vital insights into asset measurement—ranging from temperature monitoring to pressure vessels—and will understand the essential role that calibration plays in ensuring production output, compliance with international standards, audit readiness, cost efficiencies, and business intelligence reporting.

MTU’s Donagh O’Mahony, Head of Department, Physical Sciences also highlighted the significance of the announcement, “This partnership reaffirms MTU’s commitment to engaging with industry and enterprise. We are leveraging the exceptional expertise and innovation of an industry partner to support the development of future generations of talented MTU students. CompuCal has worked with us to review and update some of our core instrumentation and calibration modules, ensuring that they align with the latest in industrial best practice. The resulting changes best demonstrate the role of calibration in a live global manufacturing environment. This is directly relevant to our students and we are excited by the value that is being added to our course work and their learning experience.”

The collaboration, which includes the recent incorporation of CompuCal GO, a mobile app designed for on-site technicians, ensures that MTU students are exposed to the latest technology in the field. This state-of-the-art tool provides a fully digital, paperless solution for calibration and maintenance tasks, integrating real-time data uploads directly to the CompuCal cloud platform.

6 surprising things you can learn from playing games

When you hear the word “games”, you probably think of fun, excitement, or maybe even a waste of time (if you’re not a fan). But beneath the surface of all the thrilling gameplay and fantastic graphics, games can actually be incredible tools for learning. And it’s not just about educational games where you match words with pictures or solve puzzles to unlock math equations. Nope, even the most unexpected games can teach you valuable life skills that sneak up on you while you’re busy leveling up.

1. Protecting your privacy 

Whether you’re playing on your console, phone, or PC, many games require you to share personal information, which can sometimes put your privacy at risk. Games often collect data about your habits, location, and even your spending preferences, and not all companies handle this data with the same level of care. 

For instance, if you love playing casino games, you might choose one of the no verification casinos where you can play anonymously. The thing about these casinos is that they don’t have KYC regulations, so you don’t have to register with your personal data in order to play your favorite games. You can still enjoy gaming, but without unnecessary exposure of your private data, such as financial or ID. 

When you learn to value your privacy through gaming, you can also become more aware of the importance of safeguarding your data in everyday digital interaction.

2. Problem-solving skills

Games throw all kinds of problems at you. You could be outsmarting a monster in an RPG, solving tricky puzzles in a mystery game, or finding the best strategy to conquer your enemies in a battle royale. The beauty of it is that these problems often require creative solutions, quick thinking, and adaptability–and all these skills transfer beautifully to the real world.

Let’s be honest: Life doesn’t always go according to plan, and neither do video games. When things go south in the game, you have to think on your feet. Maybe you’ve run out of healing potions, your weapons are on the verge of breaking, and you’re trapped in a corner. What do you do? You adapt. The ability to improvise can help you navigate everyday challenges in a much smoother, more strategic way. Plus, the satisfaction of figuring out a solution to an in-game problem? Priceless! 

3. Teamwork and communication 

If you’ve ever played a multiplayer game, you already know how important teamwork and communication can be. For instance, games like League of Legends, Fortnite, or even Among Us can show you that if you’re not talking with your teammates, you’re probably not winning. Yeah, it’s not just about shouting “Watch out!” or “Get over here!” It’s about listening, strategizing, and cooperating. 

This is the best way to figure out how to best complement your team’s strengths and weaknesses. Are you the fast problem-solver, or the one who can read the game and anticipate what’s coming next? 

Once you learn to communicate your ideas effectively and make quick decisions as a group, you’ll have an invaluable skill applicable in any part of your life–from the workplace to your personal relationships.

4. Resilience and perseverance 

Have you ever rage-quit a game after losing for the tenth time, only to come back and try again the next day? That’s resilience. Games teach you to keep going, even when things get tough. You’ve probably noticed that failure is a huge part of gaming. You could be dying in a dungeon or missing a crucial jump–it happens to everyone. But you can also learn through these mistakes and push through them. 

The cycle of failing, learning, and trying again fosters perseverance. It’s no secret that people who persevere are more likely to succeed, whether it’s in their careers, personal goals, or just getting through tough times. 

5. Multitasking and time management 

Think playing games is just about mashing buttons and zoning out? Think again! Many games, especially real-time strategy or resource management games, demand you juggle multiple tasks at once. You could be managing a base, gathering resources, and fending off enemies–all within a short amount of time. This could be a serious workout for your brain.

Playing these kinds of games can teach you how to prioritize tasks, balance multiple objectives, and make quick decisions–skills that come in handy for any fast-paced job or even just managing a busy schedule.

6. Cultural awareness and historical knowledge 

Games set in different time periods or in various fictional worlds can really teach you about cultures, history, and geography. For example, the Assassin’s Creed series leads you through historical events and periods, from Ancient Egypt to Renaissance Italy. While the games take creative liberties, they still introduce you to important historical figures, events, and locations.

Even games like Civilization or Age of Empires can give you insights into how different societies evolve, expand, and interact with one another. Sure, you won’t become a history professor by playing these games, but they can definitely broaden your horizons and make history a lot more engaging than it was in school. 

Microsoft Dream Space engages 300,000 young people in digital skills

At the second annual Microsoft Dream Space Showcase held in Dublin to mark the end of school year, Microsoft announced that it has engaged 300,000 young people and teachers in its immersive Microsoft Dream Space STEM experience which has been designed to help young people pursue their interest in STEM and shift their perceptions about the role technology can play in their future career choices.

This important milestone comes just 18 months after the company pledged to provide almost 1,000,000 students and their teachers across the island of Ireland with the opportunity to develop their digital and AI skills.

Over the past year, the company has introduced a suite of new programmes, which has helped to broaden the reach of Microsoft Dream Space. The company joined forces with RTÉ Learn to present Microsoft Dream Space TV: brAIn_waves – a series exploring the evolution of AI which enabled primary and post-primary students to develop their AI literacy.

The Microsoft Dream Space hub in Leopardstown also hosted the largest ‘Capture the Flag’ cybersecurity event for post-primary school students in Ireland, which sought to inspire the next generation of cyber security leaders.

To address inequalities in accessing STEM careers among post-primary students in socially disadvantaged communities, Microsoft Ireland, together with Maynooth University, Science Foundation Ireland and the Department of Education expanded the STEM Passport for Inclusion initiative nationwide with the ambition to engage a further 5,000 students.

The second annual Microsoft Dream Space Showcase held at One Microsoft Place this week brought together over 400 students from rural areas to demonstrate the many ways in which their digital skills can help to solve some of today’s sustainability challenges.

Other Microsoft Dream Space innovations introduced within the past 12 months include the expansion of the Dream Space Ambassador and Dream Space LIVE programmes, the launch of the Dream Space Minecraft Teacher Academy, the relaunch of the Dream Space Digital Academy and the roll out of bespoke Dream Space events for people with disabilities.

The continued expansion of Microsoft Dream Space builds on Microsoft’s recent commitment to help ‘Skill Up Ireland’ by providing people of all ages, experiences and ambitions with the opportunity to develop their AI fluency and skills.

James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland Site Leader and Vice-President Microsoft Global Operations Service Centre, said: “As part of our commitment to Skill Up Ireland for the era of AI, we’re incredibly proud to have engaged 300,000 young people from across this island in our Microsoft Dream Space experience.

“With digital technology transforming our lives, work, and education, it’s crucial that every student, regardless of socio-demographics, can engage in STEM learning as early as possible and prepare for our AI future. That’s why 18 months ago, we committed an additional €3 million investment in our innovation and education hub, Microsoft Dream Space, over four years.

“As a result, we’ve been able to significantly expand our Dream Space programming and introduce new innovations to broaden its reach and impact. The significant increases in STEM interest and confidence that we’re seeing as a result, particularly among girls and students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, highlight the power of the programme.

“Through the continued growth of Microsoft Dream Space, I’m confident that we can provide every student on the island of Ireland with the chance to engage in STEM and AI learning and empower the next generation of digital leaders.”

Speaking about her experience of the Dream Space Student Ambassador programme Isobel Fay, student from Our Lady of Mercy Convent School in Booterstown, said: “Since taking part in the Dream Space Ambassador programme, I’ve learned so much about new technologies like AI and how they can be used to solve different problems in society. All the training has been really helpful in boosting my confidence to speak to students and teachers at my school in Booterstown about all the interesting possibilities that we can use technology for. I’m looking forward to more Dream Space sessions in the future and continuing to learn about the latest developments in technology.”

Reflecting on the engagement of her students in the Microsoft Dream Space TV: brAIn_waves series Nathalia McCarthy a teacher from Grange Community College, Donaghmede in Dublin said: “I loved how the series was linked to the curriculum, so we were able to add it so easily to what we were already doing in the classroom. I have never seen enthusiasm like it in 1st years, 2nd years and our TY students.”

Research undertaken by Maynooth University has indicated the positive impact of Microsoft Dream Space on those who have taken part. Findings show a 42% increase in girls likely to pursue STEM careers and a 40% increase in boys with similar aspirations. Notably, socio-economically disadvantaged girls demonstrated a 30% increase in career aspirations in STEM fields and an 80% boost in confidence regarding their STEM capabilities.

Educators eager to bring this transformative STEM education experience to your students, subscribe to the monthly Dream Space newsletter to stay updated on the latest offerings and opportunities. Join us at aka.ms/dreamspacenews.

From isolation to connection: Cork couple stars in online video series about digital skills for older people

Patrick and Liz Downes, a couple from Mitchelstown in Cork, are featured in a new online video as part of the Consumer Technology Association’s ‘The Human Component’ series. The video showcases their journey with the Hi Digital programme in partnership with the Irish Girl Guides, Vodafone Foundation, and ALONE.

The video follows 76-year-old Patrick, who rediscovered his passion for woodworking by embracing the digital world through the Hi Digital programme. With the support of his wife Liz, an Irish Girl Guides Leader and Hi Digital Champion, and the local IGG Unit, Patrick learns to use the internet to find woodworking tools and stay connected with his granddaughter.

Initially feeling disconnected and uninterested in modern technology after his multiple sclerosis diagnosis, Patrick’s life underwent a transformative change with the introduction of the Hi Digital programme. His resilience shines as he navigates the digital world, guided by Liz and the local Irish Girl Guides. To watch the video, click here.

Since 2023, Vodafone Foundation has partnered with the Irish Girl Guides to roll out the Hi Digital programme across Ireland. This initiative aims to help older adults, and above, feel comfortable with digital usage and skills, thereby combating isolation and loneliness.

IGG has provided Hi Digital classes in 25 of their units around Ireland and has trained over 2000 older adults. IGG Guides, Senior Branch members, and Leaders participate in this mutually beneficial programme by tutoring older community members. The course is divided into short lessons, teaching participants how to access the internet, use smartphones, stay safe online, and identify and avoid scams and fraud.

Liz Downes, Irish Girl Guides Leader, talking about her involvement with Hi Digital, said: “It’s about more than just teaching digital skills, it’s about fostering connections and breaking down barriers that can leave older generations feeling isolated. Through Hi Digital, we’re building bridges between generations and creating a sense of belonging for everyone.”

Jenny Gannon, Irish Girl Guides Programme and Training Commissioner, adds: “Today’s world is one dominated by tech and it is important that we learn to support each other to navigate the challenges that brings for all generations. This programme allows our young people to help older members of their community to learn how to use different aspects of their devices, while our younger members have also learned new skills while working on Hi Digital. This programme offers real opportunities for intergenerational learning and has been a hugely positive experience for all involved.”

Judy Collins, Vodafone Retail Advisor in Oliver Plunket Street, said: “I am delighted to see this video come to life, showcasing the fantastic impact the Hi Digital initiative has on the older generation. It’s heart-warming to witness stories like Patrick and Liz’s and see first-hand how Hi Digital is empowering older people with the knowledge and tools to navigate the digital world, reclaim their passions and stay connected with loved ones. We are thrilled to be able to provide this support”.

Explore the full series here: www.thehumancomponent.org

For more information about Hi Digital, visit: Welcome to Hi Digital

Public, private and voluntary sector organisations join forces to boost software skills in North and West Belfast

Leading organisations in IT, training and education have joined forces to provide young people from North and West Belfast with the chance to learn software skills that will help them work towards a future in the tech sector.

Over six months, Queen’s University Belfast and Impact Training, supported by Telefónica Tech UK&I, delivered a coding academy training programme to help 16-19-year-olds from the Greater Shankill, West and North Belfast gain essential workplace skills and learn about the latest technologies and opportunities within the IT industry.

This is the second year that the programme has run, and it saw the young people attend a series of regular coding sessions, delivered by Queen’s and Impact Training, with a graduation for the students held in the Telefónica Tech Belfast offices, which employ 330 people in Belfast. Sponsored by Telefónica Tech, each student was also provided with a Raspberry Pi for graduating, a small and affordable computer used to learn programming, which they can use to continue to develop their coding skills.

The graduation ceremony for those who completed the course took place on Wednesday 24th April at Telefónica Tech UK&I’s office in Titanic Quarter. As part of the event, awards were presented to the young people, including an outstanding achievement award to recognise a participant who went above and beyond and demonstrated true potential and dedication to learning new skills. This year’s winner was Justin Clarke.

Delivering training opportunities for young people in Greater Shankill, West and North Belfast for over 45 years, Impact Training, provides training options for school leavers who have chosen to pursue a more vocational path.

Ellen Dickson, Strategic VP of Enterprise Health at Telefónica Tech UK&I, commented: “Congratulations to all of the young people who completed this year’s course. Telefónica Tech UK&I is incredibly proud to once again support and be part of such a fantastic programme that will hopefully mark the beginning of an exciting career in IT for those who participated. As well as providing young people with essential skills to widen their career options, the programme will also help boost the pipeline of skills that is needed to enable our IT sector to continue to thrive.”

Dr David Cutting, Director of Education in the School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Queen’s University Belfast, said: “We are delighted to join forces with Impact Training and Telefónica Tech UK&I to deliver something so worthwhile, helping young people discover their love for IT and embark on careers in the sector. We are proud to see our peer mentors support the next generation of experts in coding and share their love and enthusiasm.”

This has been an outstanding programme to help the young people of Belfast kickstart their IT careers.  It is incredible to see how quickly the participants took up coding and the amount of talent and passion that each of them had. It is fantastic to see our students helping to train the next generation of experts in coding.”

Gerard Fox, Vocational Employment Manager at Impact Training, added: “It is fantastic to witness how much students can grow and reach their full potential when completing the course and it is fantastic to offer it once again to young people in Belfast. It not only gives them an insight into the IT sector but it is also a fantastic way for them to gain confidence and grow as they begin the journey towards their future careers. Congratulations to everyone who completed the course.”

Transform Your Irish Skills with Free AI Language Coach – Gaeilgeoir AI

Speak Irish fluently with the launch of Gaeilgeoir AI, a groundbreaking language learning tool arriving just in time for Seachtain na Gaeilge. This cutting-edge technology leverages the power of AI, backed by research, to revolutionize the way people learn Irish.

A recent McKinsey study highlights the immense potential of AI in education, suggesting it can enhance learning outcomes by as much as 20-30%.  Specifically for language learning, AI tools have been shown to help learners develop conversational skills up to 6 times faster than traditional methods.

Key Features: A New Era of Irish Language Learning

  • Intelligent AI Conversations: Practice realistic, everyday Irish with an adaptive AI partner that tailors the experience to your skill level.
  • Personalized Learning: Receive customized feedback and targeted lessons that focus on your individual needs.
  • Engaging & Accessible: The interactive and gamified approach makes learning Irish enjoyable and keeps learners motivated.

Founder’s Vision: Empowering a New Generation of Irish Speakers

“The essence of language is communication. Yet, traditional methods for teaching Irish often overemphasize memorization of poems and vocabulary, often leaving learners unable to actually hold a conversation. Gaeilgeoir AI aims to change that,” says David, founder of Gaeilgeoir AI.

The launch couldn’t be more perfectly timed.  With Seachtain na Gaeilge celebrations underway, Gaeilgeoir AI provides an innovative and accessible way for people worldwide to connect with the Irish language and culture.

Experience the future of Irish language learning – for free! Visit www.gaeilgeoir.ai and start your journey to fluency today. We welcome media inquiries and are open to interviews and demonstrations.

About Gaeilgeoir AI

Gaeilgeoir AI is on a mission to make Irish language learning accessible. Our AI tools are designed to empower learners from all backgrounds.

Bainigí taitneamh as Seachtain na Gaeilge!

(“Enjoy Seachtain na Gaeilge!”)