ATU confirms dates for graduation ceremonies in Mayo

The dates for the Atlantic Technological University(ATU) Mayo's conferring ceremonies have been confirmed.

ATU’s conferring ceremonies will continue in Mayo on November 21.

An honorary Doctorate will be bestowed on former President of Ireland, Mary Robinson, at a special ceremony in Mayo on December 2.  

_{Gia Connelly, Ballina, with Clara Corcoran, and Leanne McGowan, both Ballymote, Co Sligo who all graduated in Accountancy from ATU}

ATU commenced its annual conferring ceremonies this week, celebrating the achievements of over 2,800 graduates across a wide range of disciplines.

Graduates from diverse fields were recognised, spanning from science and engineering to health, business, and the arts, marking another significant achievement for the university and its graduates.  Over the next few weeks, further ceremonies will take place across the region, with approximately 5,000 graduates being conferred this year.   

The president of ATU, Dr Orla Flynn, extended her congratulations to the graduates, calling it a day of celebration, reflection, and anticipation.

“It’s a day for you to look back on the challenges you've overcome, the growth you've experienced, and the memories you’ve made. As our new graduates, you are not just equipped with degrees, but with the power to be a positive influence in society. Whatever your field, remember that your education is a tool for positive change,” she continued.

During her address at the conferring ceremonies, Dr Flynn also called for the lifting of current constraints on ATU and the technological university (TU) sector.  

She highlighted that removal of these barriers is essential for ATU to fully serve the needs of the West and Northwest region of Ireland. 

“To fully deliver on our promise to the region, we need to be given the full set of tools used by other universities in Ireland and across Europe. We need to be able to appoint Professors. We need to be able to access funds to deliver essential facilities for our students and staff, and we need to be able to develop affordable student accommodation,” she commented.

Highlighting recent achievements such as the introduction of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy programmes, as examples of delivering on the potential of ATU, Dr Flynn added: “In our two and a half years of existence, ATU has been especially focused on the needs of the people of our region.  The recent announcements that we will be providing programmes in Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy are evidence of this commitment. My thanks to all involved in this outstanding work, even though there is a lot more work to do in the months ahead.”  

To conclude, Dr Flynn appealed to policymakers and government leaders: “I am calling on those who hold the keys to use them, to enable us to unlock our full potential and, in turn, the potential of the region.”