On Friday 11th September, the west Belfast community celebrated 27 years of the Aisling Education Bursaries in St Mary's University College, Falls Road. Jim Donnelly, Chair of the West Belfast Partnership Board welcomed over 300 sponsors, recipients and their friends and family, thanking independent Judges Monica Culbert and Eilish Rooney for their hard work and support.
OCN is proud to support the Aisling Education Bursaries that aim to provide financial support to learners from the West Belfast and Shankill communities who are progressing to higher education. The initiative is a community and private sector partnership through which businesses, community enterprises, families and individuals contribute to the Aisling Education Bursary fund and make a firm commitment to developing the skills of the local community.
Now in its 27th year, the programme has helped generations of students overcome financial barriers and pursue their educational ambitions. This year, 161 students received bursaries worth a total of £135,000. Since the scheme was established in 2000, 1795 students have benefited from more than £1.3 million in support.
West Belfast Partnership Board were delighted to welcome Minister for the Economy, Dr. Caoimhe Archibald MLA as the keynote speaker.
Minister Archibald said:
"For 27 years, the Aisling Bursary has helped remove financial barriers, raise aspirations and support learners to access higher education. Supported by my Department, and a wide range of community and business partners, it is a powerful example of what can be achieved when we invest in the potential of local people.
Education has the power to transform lives and create opportunities. By investing in education and skills, we equip people with the knowledge and confidence to fulfil their potential, strengthen their communities and help grow our economy. I thank everyone who has supported the scheme over the years and congratulate this year's recipients on their achievements. I wish them every success as they take the next steps in their educational journey."
Joanne Patterson, OCN Business Development Manager, presented the bursary to Kelan Lawlor
“It was a pleasure to attend the Aisling Education Bursaries Awards and be part of such a special evening. OCN was proud to sponsor a bursary, and I had the privilege of presenting it to Kelan Lawlor, who is currently undertaking an electrical apprenticeship. The awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognise the dedication, talent, and potential of recipients and OCN is honoured to play a part in celebrating their achievements.”
Martin Flynn, Chief Executive of OCN, congratulated this year's bursary recipients
“The Aisling Education Bursary continues to make a meaningful difference by helping to remove financial barriers and create opportunities for individuals to progress in education and achieve their ambitions. OCN is proud to support this initiative, which reflects our commitment to widening participation in learning and helping people reach their full potential.
Education has the power to transform lives, build confidence and open doors to new opportunities. By investing in learners, we are investing in stronger communities, a more skilled workforce and a brighter future for all. I would like to congratulate this year’s bursary recipients on their achievements and wish them every success as they take the next steps in their educational and career journeys.”
