A major investment of 1.5million EURO in the South East Technological University Project has been announced by the Higher Education Authority.
Both ITs decided to recommence discussions on the creation of a regional Technological University earlier this year.
The funding follows a recent joint application by the two Institutes for funding to the Authority.
A statement issued by I.T. Carlow and W.I.T. says the two South East Institutes are committed to delivering a university of international standing for the region in support of economic and social development and this investment by the HEA will help advance this process.
It also says in the statement that is imperative that the legislation required to enable the creation of the Technological University is also enacted to enable the creation of a university for the South East.
President of I.T. Carlow Dr Patricia Mulcahy says it's a big vote of confidence in the future of education in the region.
"Essentially the funding will allow us to succond key executives from both institutes to a dedicated project team to harness the commitment across both institutes at all levels to deliver a university for the entire region.
Both institutes see this as a vote of confidence by the Government and the HEA in the South East Technological University Project.
We are confident that with this funding it will help to put us on track to seek designation within three years.
And of course the whole purpose of this is to bring enhanced prosperity to the region, stimulate economic growth and generate many thousands of jobs in the future."
