Údarás na Gaeltachta and University of Galway Launch Innovative Postgraduate Bursary for MA in Planning and Development

Údarás na Gaeltachta, in collaboration with the University of Galway, announces a groundbreaking initiative to support the sustainable development of Gaeltacht regions. The organisation has approved funding for up to two €10,000 bursaries for students enrolling in the University of Galway’s MA in Planning and Development program starting September 2024.

This new postgraduate bursary scheme aims to empower Irish-speaking graduates to advance their expertise in areas crucial to the Gaeltacht’s future economic, social, educational, sociolinguistic, and cultural development. Successful candidates will gain comprehensive insights into the unique planning and development challenges faced by Gaeltacht communities, as well as valuable work experience with Údarás na Gaeltachta.

Tomás Ó Síocháin, CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta, emphasized the bursary’s significance:

 “This innovative qualification will equip recipients with a deep understanding of the planning and development challenges public agencies face in implementing investment and development plans in the Gaeltacht and other rural districts. By building capacity within Local Authorities and planning bodies, we’re ensuring that future professional planners can effectively support the sustainable development of Gaeltacht regions for years to come.”

Dr. Therese Conway, Director of the MA Planning and Development program, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration:

 “These bursaries not only support students in their postgraduate education but also provide an exceptional opportunity to engage with Údarás na Gaeltachta and explore the multifaceted aspects of proper planning and sustainable development. We’re excited to welcome the successful candidates to our program this September.”

The MA in Planning and Development prepares graduates for diverse careers in land use and physical planning, surveying, community and regional planning, and sustainable planning futures. This bursary offers a unique chance for Irish-speaking graduates to contribute to the preservation and growth of Gaeltacht communities while advancing their professional qualifications.

Interested applicants should contact Dr. Therese Conway, Programme Director, at therese.conway@universityofgalway.ie for eligibility details and application information. The application deadline is14th August.

For more information about Údarás na Gaeltachta and its initiatives, visit www.udaras.ie. To learn more about the University of Galway’s MA in Planning and Development, visit www.universityofgalway.ie