Education and training systems in Ireland have undergone enormous changes since the first Higher Options Conference 17 years ago, meaning there are now many different routes into education, the Minister of State for Education and Science, Ms Síle de Valera, has said. John Downes reports.
At the launch last night of this year's Higher Options conference, which runs until Friday at the RDS in Ballsbridge, Ms de Valera said education today was "a continuous process of lifelong learning, training and retraining".
The conference, she said, was unique as it provided a one-stop shop to provide access to information on college courses around the State.
"Each year tens of thousands of students with their parents and guidance counsellors benefit from their attendance at the conference," Ms de Valera said.
"The wide range of educational and career choices available ensures that there are courses and opportunities available to suit every individual's needs, interests and abilities. Leaving Certificate points are not the be all and end all."
Ms de Valera said she was particularly pleased to note the emphasis placed on adult education. This year, a special evening session for adult learners will take place tomorrow, with guest speakers on themes of particular relevance to this group.
"Today, people of all ages are returning to education . . . it is appropriate that presentations are available at this conference on alternative routes for entry and transfer to college," she said.
"As we move towards a situation where lifelong learning is the norm in Ireland, it is essential that systems and structures be in place to enable learners to gain recognition for their learning in a flexible way."
One way in which this would be achieved was through the introduction of the National Framework for Qualifications in 2003 and the announcement earlier this year of a new framework for qualifications.
Also speaking at the event, which was attended by Ms Geraldine Kennedy, the Editor of The Irish Times, Mr Brian Mooney, president of the Institute of Guidance Counsellors (IGC), said he believed this year's conference would help to build on the service which The Irish Times and the IGC had provided for students through its helpline.
Tomorrow's information talks for adults and parents will run from 5.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. at the RDS; tickets will be available at the door.