TU Dublin Celebrates Graduates of Intercultural Community Development Programme

Published: Thursday 2 April 2026 - 16:53

TU Dublin recently celebrated the achievements of 21 students who successfully completed a 20 ECTS Level 6 Special Purpose Award – Certificate in Arts in Intercultural Community Development.

Certificates were formally presented on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, by Dr Pat O'Connor, Head of the School of Social Sciences, Law and Education.

The programme, which is linked to the BA (Honours) in Community Development and Youth Work, focuses on building knowledge, leadership and practical skills in intercultural community development. It is designed to support learners from new and marginalised communities, equipping them with the expertise needed to contribute meaningfully to community initiatives and social development.

Delivered over two semesters, the programme reflects TU Dublin’s commitment to inclusion and equality and is consistent with the positive public sector duty under Section 42 of the Human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014.

The initiative was made possible through the support and funding of several partners, including the All Ireland Endorsement Board for Community Development (AIEB), Empower, and Blanchardstown Travellers Development Group (BTDG). Their collaboration highlights the importance of partnership between higher education and community development organisations in promoting participation, equality and lifelong learning.

The event was attended by a range of community and public representatives. The Mayor of Fingal was represented by Councillor Ted Leddy, while Councillor Breda Hanaphy of Fingal County Council, herself a graduate of a previous delivery of the programme, was also present. Representatives from all funding organisations and members of the Fingal County Council Communities Department joined staff, graduates and guests in celebrating the students’ achievements.

Speaking at the event, Dr O’Connor congratulated the graduates and acknowledged the importance of the programmes: 

“I would like to warmly congratulate all of the graduates on their achievement. Programmes like this play a vital role in supporting intercultural understanding, strengthening community leadership, and widening access to higher education. Today’s certificate presentation recognises not only the students’ academic accomplishments but also their strong commitment to community engagement, inclusion, and social development across Dublin and beyond.”