Forum brings Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim voices together to shape future of further education
All of 115 adult learners from Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim came together at the Landmark Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon, for a regional meeting of the National Further Education and Training (FET) Learner Forum.
The event provided an opportunity for learners to share their experiences, discuss their learning journeys, and contribute to shaping the future of further education across Ireland.
The National FET Learner Forum is a collaborative initiative led by AONTAS, the National Adult Learning Organisation, in partnership with SOLAS, the Further Education and Training Authority, and local Education and Training Boards.
Throughout 2025, thousands of learners from across Ireland will take part in regional forums, offering valuable insights into the experiences of adult learners nationwide.
Speaking at the forum, Rosario Cooney, a support coordinator at the Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB), said: “The Learner Forum is the most important day in the academic year for our learners, when they get to have an anonymous voice about their experience with MSLETB. It is very important to MSLETB that we get the opportunity to receive our learners' opinions about our services, what we do well, and where we can make improvements if appropriate.”
She added: “The Learner Forum is also an opportunity for the learners to meet colleagues from other services across the three counties and to realise that they are part of a much larger community of learners.”
Facilitators at the event observed that learners were highly positive about their courses, tutors and the overall adult learning experience. Many shared how further education has been transformative, particularly in contrast to past negative experiences with formal education. One learner with dyslexia expressed that, after 55 years of pretending to read and write, his further education journey has reignited his excitement for learning.
Learners highlighted some challenges, including a lack of local transport services, inadequate heating in some centres, and difficulties in securing work placements. To address these issues, they suggested upgrading buildings, greater support with work placements and the organisation of social events to bring Irish and international learners together outside of class.
If you are thinking of going back to education, you can find further information on the AONTAS website. You can also check out the range of programmes available at the Mayo, Sligo and Leitrum Education and Training Board on their website.