By Professor Shane Kilcommins, Acting President of University of Limerick.
At University of Limerick, we value creativity, curiosity and excellence in our inclusive community which is committed to social good.
As the year draws to an end, it affords us the time to reflect on the past 12 months and to look forward to what the next twelve may bring.
Ireland will have a new government in the New Year, with a new five-year programme being drawn up to outline its priorities. University of Limerick has highlighted the importance of a properly funded and resourced higher education sector.
The sector plays a crucial part in driving our economy and our society forward and we wait to hear what the plans are to ensure that UL and others can continue at the leading edge of teaching, learning and research.
UL’s commitment to the pursuit of research excellence remains steadfast. Sustainable development is central to how the University operates.
Over the past twelve months, our researchers have been pushing the boundaries. One such innovation has been the launch of AMPEiRE, the National Rechargeable Battery Fabrication and Test Facility, which will see UL strategically positioned to be the European focal point for pioneering research in next generation batteries.
UL was chosen by the government as the location for a new direct entry undergraduate medicine programme. This is a significant development and strong vote of confidence in our University that reinforces our pivotal role in the region and our unwavering commitment to advancing education and healthcare here.
As we develop and enhance the capacity of the country’s first Doctoral College, we are looking forward to running a new collaborative training module called Engaged Research Design for Sustainability’ Blended Intensive Programme (BIP).
Developed in partnership with YERUN, UL’s Centre for Sustainable Futures and Innovation, and UL Engage, the module offers a unique opportunity for early-stage doctoral researchers to develop the skills, knowledge, and tools necessary to address the complex challenges facing our world today.
This collaboration highlights the importance of YERUN, where we can leverage the knowledge of our partners for the betterment of all.
And as we celebrate the tenth anniversary of YERUN in 2025, its mission remains as important as ever. Young universities have a unique perspective and their voice is invaluable.
UL is leading a collaboration of nine universities in a new European University Alliance called EMERGE and we recently hosted a strategic workshop and partners gathering at our campus.
EMERGE (Empowering the Margins of Europe through Regional and Global Engagement) brings together the universities, united by the conviction that by working together we can build a more equitable, sustainable and prosperous Europe for all.
This summer’s Olympics and Paralympics were enjoyed all over the world, and UL had a special interest as more than 25 members of the UL community, from students to staff and graduates, were involved as athletes, coaches or support team members.
Nine Limerick/ UL-based athletes and graduates competed in the games representing Ireland, Canada and Australia across a wide range of sporting disciplines, cementing UL’s position as Ireland’s sporting campus.
As all great athletes would attest, rest and recovery are essential components in achieving success. Our academics, researchers, staff and students should take this holiday period to recharge and prepare for another year ahead of creativity, curiosity, innovation and success.
Nollaig Shona agus Athbhliain faoi mhaise daoibh
