The Taoiseach Enda Kenny has officially unveiled a new €4 million science suite at Letterkenny Institute of Technology.
The Fine Gael leader spoke to staff and students of the LYIT about the “exciting times ahead” for students across Ireland and how they could make their dreams become a reality.
He was shown around the new science suite and introduced to students by President of the LYIT, Paul Hannigan.
Among the many students he met was Sharon McCann, who is originally from Dublin, who has returned to college to do a Higher Certificate in Science in the hope of becoming a pharmacy technician.
Along his tour of the suite, An Taoiseach was also surprised when he bumped into Donegal GAA star Rory Kavanagh.
The pair exchanged words and Mr Kenny said he hoped his native Mayo could go one further next year after being beaten by Donegal in the All-Ireland final.
Mr Kenny also addressed those present about the importance of The Gathering project planned for next year.
The new science facility now adds more than 1,000 square metres of fully equipped science laboratories with a total of eight laboratories with an investment of €4 million.
The expansion is due in part to the increase in student numbers at the LYIT which have jumped by 55% in the past 3 years with more than 3,000 students now at the Port Road campus.
An Taoiseach commented that, “This is a great occasion for Letterkenny Institute of Technology, for higher education and indeed the North West Region. I am delighted to be here to open this state-of-the-art science building that will put LYIT graduates in the fast lane to a successful career in the sciences.
“The Government will continue to place science, technology and innovation at the heart of enterprise and jobs policies so that we are favourably positioned to win new business and build economic recovery.”
Paul Hannigan, President of LYIT, referred to the continued increase of students and expansion of courses, “We anticipate our student numbers will steadily increase, especially in science, and we now provide over 100 courses in many areas up to Masters level.
“This year we have entirely renewed our curriculum to reflect the latest academic and industrial standards. The new science facility means that we are now one of the most modern campuses in Ireland. I would especially like to thank Mary Daly, Estates Manager, and her team on completing this valuable project.”
The new laboratories have been cleverly designed as a lightweight extension over the roof of the existing building.
The building work caused minimum disruption and was a cost-effective solution to develop the science facilities on campus. The project was completed over the summer.
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