DCU hosting network of Higher Education Reform Experts (HERE) for Virtual Study Visit on graduate empoyability
Dublin City University, with support of the Irish University Association, will host the Network of Higher Education Reform Experts (HERE) for a Virtual Study Visit on 27-28 May 2021. The Visit will explore how universities are navigating the topic of employability of graduates, and tools and approaches used to drive and shape this, including innovative industry partnerships linked to skills, micro-credentialing, student career support services, curricula renewal and graduate tracking and impact assessment.
The two-day event will give the teams of experts from universities, ministries, national higher education and QA bodies, and other relevant organisations, officially appointed by the HE authorities of 25 “Neighbourhood countries” (Southern Mediterranean, West Balkans, Eastern Europe, Central Asia) an opportunity to consider a highly relevant topic for universities as they face the implications of a global pandemic and its repercussions on teaching, learning, skills development, employability and the wider mission of universities in a fast-changing society.
It will frame the topic from the following perspectives, showcasing different national and institutional approaches and initiatives in Ireland:
- Rethinking the university contribution to employability in light of the challenges presented by the global pandemic
- Employability considerations in teaching, study programmes & curricula design
- Career support services for students
- Work placements and internshipsUniversities supporting inclusive employment
- Data systems and quality assurance/ student tracking systems
- Collaboration with employers and other external stakeholders etc.
- Skilling/re-skilling and the role of micro-credentials
Speaking in advance of the event, Professor Daire Keogh, DCU President said, “At DCU, we pride ourselves on our track record of producing highly employable graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to flourish in the workplace.
However, the world of work is undergoing rapid change, leaving Higher Education institutions with little room for complacency. For that reason, I warmly welcome the HERE virtual study visit, as it will give us an opportunity to explore new approaches to employability and to share our experiences with international colleagues.”
Professor Lisa Looney, DCU Vice President Academic Affairs, added “The study visit is timely given DCU’s current work under DCU Futures on innovative undergraduate curricula, and leadership in the development of microcredentials, particularly in the context of the ECIU university initiative. Both programmes have a strong emphasis on engagement with enterprise.”