Welcome from CEO
Welcome to the virtual home of THEA
You are most warmly welcome to the virtual home of the Technological Higher Education Association (THEA). THEA is the association created by the technological sector in Ireland with the mandate to represent and advocate for its members, and inform policy creation.
In fulfilling this mandate we work with a range of partners, both national and international, and all in the interests of the students and communities that are served by our dynamic constituent institutions.
THEA was established formally by the technological sector and launched in April 2017. It emerges at a most significant time of change for higher education in Ireland. Our member institutions are centres of learning as well as being engines for economic activity. They are located right throughout the country and act as catalysts for regional sustainability and growth. The institutions cater for approximately half of the complement of those enrolled in higher education in Ireland and they offer programmes of education and training that are available from Level 6 to 10 on the National Framework of Qualifications.
The technological sector offers a unique student experience. It develops the individual in a manner that is socially conscious and in a context that constantly relates to the demands of a fast-changing society. This sector is research-informed and practice-based and is characterized through its close ties with enterprise and with the communities that are served by its institutions. There is strong focus on building relevant skill competencies and on a research agenda that that is notable for its focused and relevant nature and for the strong record in being close to the user. The technological sector contributes centrally to the stated national ambition to transform people’s lives and to help everyone to achieve their potential in life. In expanding access to higher education and in making this available right throughout the country, our member institutes are giving effect to a more inclusive educational structure that recognizes that education is key to the betterment of citizens’ lives and is central to the development, cohesion, and wellbeing of society.
Through this site you can enter a world of higher education that is dynamic and ever-evolving. I welcome you to explore this resource and to look at the contribution that THEA and the technological sector make to higher education policy, to research development and innovation, and to national and international communities of learning. Our member institutions’ websites provide a comprehensive window to the many offerings available throughout the sector across a wide domain range from arts to STEM and these can be accessed at different points throughout our website. Please feel free to explore this site and we will be pleased to engage with you through social media or through the other communication channels offered here.
Regards,
Dr Joseph Ryan
