UCC to tackle green transition upskilling with Sustainability Academy

University College Cork (UCC) has unveiled the Sustainability Academy, a new program aimed at equipping businesses, public bodies, organizations and individuals with the skills necessary to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the green transition. The Academy will offer a practical, flexible and accredited education and training to address the growing skills shortage across Ireland's workforce in sustainability.

Designed to meet the evolving needs of industry, the Academy will deliver a range of short, stackable courses. These courses will be developed in collaboration with UCC's research expertise, including the Sustainability Institute, specialist sustainability trainers, and industry practitioners. The initiative is a testament to UCC's ongoing commitment to sustainability leadership and its dedication to working with society to accelerate Ireland's green transition.

Speaking at the launch, UCC President Prof John O'Halloran emphasized the role of universities in addressing the climate challenge. He highlighted the importance of equipping people with the skills needed for meaningful change, stating that the UCC Sustainability Academy builds on the university's established sustainability leadership and demonstrates its commitment to collaborative efforts for a more sustainable future.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless also spoke at the event, expressing his support for the Academy. He emphasized its significance in equipping learners from both the public and private sectors with the knowledge and practical skills required to drive the transition to a more sustainable economy and society.

Lawless highlighted that the Academy will help develop the talent and capabilities needed to meet climate ambitions, while leveraging UCC's expertise in sustainability education and training.

The establishment of the Sustainability Academy marks an important investment in Ireland's future, according to Lawless. By turning ambition into action, the Academy aims to ensure that Ireland has the necessary skills and expertise to achieve a greener, more resilient future.