UCC community work courses get City Hall honour

The contribution of Youth and Community Work education at University College Cork (UCC) was honoured by the Lord Mayor of Cork councillor Dan Boyle at a reception in Cork City Hall.

As part of Cork’s Lifelong Learning Festival, the reception celebrated two milestones in UCC’s commitment to equality and social justice. They were the 30 year anniversary of the Bachelor of Social Science — Youth and Community Work degree and also the 35 year anniversary of the Diploma in Youth and Community Work.

Over the last three decades, there have been over 5,000 UCC Youth and Community Work graduates, with many going on to hold key roles in leading youth, community and voluntary organisations, as well as in public service and elected office, shaping policy and practice in communities across Ireland.

The event brought together representatives from frontline organisations who continue to collaborate with UCC in supporting the professional development of students and graduates, including Foróige, CDYS, YMCA Ireland, Cork ETB, Cork City Council, Concern, Focus Ireland, St Vincent de Paul and the Cork Traveller Visibility Group.

“For over three decades, UCC’s Youth and Community Work programmes have not only educated students but have strengthened the fabric of Cork’s community and voluntary sector,” Mr Boyle said.

“This reception is a recognition of the people behind these programmes and the graduates who have dedicated their lives to building stronger, fairer, and resilient communities.”

UCC president John O’Halloran said all at the university are proud of the impact Youth and Community Work graduates make in society.

“The true measure of the success of these programmes lies not only in the achievements of our graduates but also in the lives they touch and the communities they strengthen.

“Whether working with young people, families, or marginalised groups, our graduates are at the heart of meaningful change , supporting, empowering and advocating for others every day.”