UCC launches 'world-first' neurodiversity course aimed at making BioPharmaChem sector more inclusive

UCC has launched what it says is a world-first course on diversity aimed at making Ireland’s BioPharmaChem sector a more inclusive place to work.

The university, together with BioPharmaChem Skillnet — which provides upskilling to businesses in the sector — has announced a new cert in CPD aimed at fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in BioPharmaChem.

The new Certificate in CPD in Neurodiversity in the Workplace is, UCC said, the first university-accredited course in this area anywhere in the world and was developed by Adult Continuing Education (ACE) at UCC.

“For the pharmaceutical industry to work with us to create a course specifically for their industry on neurodiversity, is amazing,” said programme coordinator with ACE at UCC, Eleanor McSherry. “As someone who is neurodivergent, and who has a neurodivergent son, it is important to me that people are educated about what neurodiversity is.

“Unfortunately, many neurodivergent workers within the industry are afraid to say they have issues and would rather walk away from the workplace than let anyone know.

“We need to create a culture of inclusion, to take away that fear, and this can only be achieved through education.”

The course is aimed at leaders, directors, HODs, managers, supervisors, teams, and anyone interested in fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

“It is our goal to make the BioPharmaChem industry a more inclusive place to work, and we are thrilled to be able to fund places on this innovative course,” said Aoife O’Sullivan, head of network development and innovation at Skillnet Ireland.

The 12-week course will be taught fully online and will commence this month.

Further information and registration details are available online at www.ucc.ie/en/ace-ccpdnw/.