The South East Technological University has officially been launched, ending a decade-long campaign for a university in the region.
SETU has campuses across counties Carlow, Waterford and Wexford serving more than 18 thousand students.
It was formally established last May, after IT Carlow and Waterford IT merged.
Higher Education Minister Simon Harris says it's been a long time coming.
"This is a day where the South East raises it's head and where the South east says to the rest of Ireland, and indeed says to the rest of the world, 'we are open for business
"This is a university that will power growth, power investment and job creation in the South East."
The vision has become a reality!
Proud to officially launch South East Technological University - a University for the region but with a global reach.
Thanks to all who worked to get us to this point - it hasn't been easy but it has and will be worth it! pic.twitter.com/5n1BTm5ZiU— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) October 24, 2022
Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne T.D. was among those who have welcomed the official launch of South East Technological University (SETU).
Speaking from the launch at the SETU Waterford campus, Minister Browne praised the college staff and his Government colleagues for their work on bringing the technology university’s creation to fruition.
“This is a fantastic day for the South East.
"Bringing two institutes of technology under the one umbrella marks a significant departure for third level education in the south east.
"Many students in the south east will now benefit from an excellent college education as they attend a technological university with strong academic credentials.
"This rigorous standard will really help County Wexford and the South East; businesses will see the launch of the technological university as a massive economic driver for our region."
Ibec, the group that represents Irish business, also welcomed the official launch today.
Attending the launch, Andy Crowley, Ibec South East Regional President it will enable the region to achieve so much.
“Today’s launch of SETU marks a milestone occasion. The South East is now a university region, and this will play a key role in retaining existing talent within the region as well as attracting new talent, new inward investment and research opportunities.
"SETU will also support more balanced regional growth, by enabling the South East to realise its economic potential and achieve its growth ambition."
