Atlantic Technological University (ATU) and Vodafone Ireland have secured €4.6 million from the EU’s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Digital Fund to enhance digital technologies for on-campus and online apprenticeship courses.

The total investment in Irish education, including contributions from ATU and Vodafone, reaches €6.25 million.

The project will establish Extended Reality (XR) labs powered by a private 5G standalone network and edge computing infrastructure, enabling engineering and construction students to engage with immersive virtual and augmented reality environments. Italian technology firm FifthIngenium will support development of XR applications.

The pilot programme at ATU Donegal will combine classroom teaching with remote and virtual training, enhancing accessibility for students in rural areas and those balancing work with study. Key tools include virtual construction labs, immersive learning platforms, and 3D video streaming to simulate real-world construction environments.

The initiative is part of the €12.3 million European 5G-SHARE programme, fostering cross-border collaboration with universities in Romania and the Czech Republic to test new 5G-based teaching methods. Vodafone’s Connected Education programme underpins the initiative, promoting advanced digital learning infrastructure and inclusive skills development.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless said the funding reflects the government’s goal to strengthen apprenticeships and ensure Ireland has a skilled workforce to deliver infrastructure and housing projects. He highlighted the role of digital learning in achieving these ambitions.

Sheila Kavanagh, Network Director at Vodafone Ireland, said: “This initiative will give us the ability to train people faster and smarter. Access to skills depends on strong digital infrastructure and by leveraging advanced connectivity, remote learning, and the power of 5G, we’re making it possible for people everywhere to upskill and contribute to Ireland’s growth.”

Explore the full initiative and its impact on apprenticeships in Ireland in the complete story.