Statement of Strategy 2025 - 2028

A world-leading further and higher education, research, and skills system where everyone is empowered to reach their potential and drive Ireland’s economic and social progress.

To harness education, skills, research and innovation as drivers of the economy, resilience and inclusion.

Priority 1

To foster research and innovation as an economic enabler

Our aim is to foster an agile, inclusive, and globally connected research and innovation system that addresses major economic, social, and environmental challenges and strengthens Ireland’s global competitiveness and innovation performance. By strengthening the research capacity of our higher education institutions, attracting world-class talent, and deepening international partnerships, Ireland will advance its position as a leader in research driven discovery, innovation and economic and societal impact.

Ireland’s 2026 Presidency of the Council of the European Union will provide an opportunity to advance our shared European priorities in research and innovation, while showcasing Ireland’s role as a global hub for excellence, collaboration and impact.

Priority 2

To provide high quality accessible tertiary education

We will support a high-performing, inclusive and future-focused tertiary education system that delivers for learners, the economy and society. Our goal is to support institutions to provide excellent learning, promote student success, and respond to evolving needs with enhanced performance, strategic reforms and strengthened quality of outcomes to secure long-term competitiveness.

We will support the development of a more inclusive and equitable tertiary education system that reflects the full diversity of Irish society and ensure that all learners can access and successfully complete their education.

Priority 3

To expand pathways to skills, reskilling, and apprenticeships that match Ireland’s evolving workforce needs

Skills are key to our resilience and competitiveness. A responsive, agile and flexible skills ecosystem across all levels is vital for future readiness, and ensuring individuals and the economy can adapt to disruption and seize new opportunities.

We will promote a responsive, future-ready skills system to support people throughout their lives to access useful education, training, and employment. Our goal is to enable learners and workers to thrive in a changing world through flexible learning pathways, apprenticeships, and by aligning provision with Ireland’s evolving economic, environmental and social needs. This includes anticipating future workforce challenges, closing skills gaps, and supporting critical public services and national priorities such as housing, healthcare, climate action, and economic development.

Priority 4

To promote the pursuit of knowledge as a public good

We will promote the pursuit of knowledge, creativity and critical thinking as the foundation of lifelong learning and personal development. Education is not only an economic driver but also a public good that empowers individuals and strengthens communities.

In a world shaped by technological disruption, economic uncertainty and rapid change, we must support a culture that inspires learners and provides opportunities to grow, adapt and succeed. By equipping people with critical thinking, creativity and resilience, Ireland can prepare not just for today’s jobs, but for careers yet to be imagined, supporting a strong, agile and competitive economy.