Higher Education Policy and Research

Higher Education - Policy and Research has responsibility for ensuring an effective policy framework for higher education that supports delivery of high quality teaching, research and engagement by Irish higher education institutions. This includes development and compliance with the legislation governing the sector. The section also has a key policy remit to ensure the provision of higher education and training relevant to the skills needs of the labour force and to support the upskilling of unemployed people.

• work with the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and other relevant agencies in providing effective policy direction, oversight and support for the higher education sector in meeting the needs of the learner and in supporting wider social and economic policy goals
• oversee progress in implementing the actions identified in the ImplementationPlan for the National Strategy for Higher Education 2030
• support the implementation of the National Skills Strategy, Pathways to Work and the Job’s Action Plan
• oversee implementation of Springboard and the ICT Skills Action Plan
• work with the higher education sector to develop responses to identified specific skills needs
• work with the HEA and other relevant agencies in the development of innovative and flexible upskilling and reskilling programmes for unemployed people
• represent the Department on the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs
• represent the Department on a range of interdepartmental committees and bodies.