Revisiting the Education Awards 2026 earlier this year, the Academic Registry at the University of Limerick has been named winner of the Student Engagement & Communications Award, recognised earlier this year for a student-centred service model that has set a sector-leading standard for accessibility, communications governance, and continuous improvement in higher education support services.

The Academic Registry functions as the support backbone of University of Limerick, and its approach to student engagement reflects a clear institutional commitment to making that support as accessible, transparent, and responsive as possible. Digitised workflows, self-service design, and clearly communicated response times give students a service experience built around their needs rather than administrative convenience, demonstrating the kind of educational leadership that places student success at the centre of operational decision-making.

The maturity and reliability of the model is what gave the submission its particular strength. Strong statistical data gave judges a clear and credible picture of a team that measures its impact consistently and uses those measurements to drive further improvement. A dedicated communications strategy and a structured support service model ensure that the Academic Registry's engagement with students is not reactive but purposeful, governed by a Vision, Mission and Values framework that keeps the student experience at the heart of everything the team does.

The programme's integration of digital learning tools and self-service design reflects a forward-thinking approach to student support that is well aligned with the evolving expectations of students across Ireland's higher education sector.

Judges were clear in their assessment. "The Academic Registry delivers an exemplary, student-centred service model, integrating digitised workflows, transparent response times, and self-service design to improve student experience. With sector-leading accessibility and communications governance, it showcases impressive maturity and reliability. Supported by strong statistical data, this initiative demonstrates the team's dedication to continuous improvement and effective student support," the panel stated.

The Education Awards 2026 gala took place on 16 April at the Johnstown Estate, Enfield, Co. Meath.

For the complete 2026 winners list, category insights, and institution profiles, visit the official Education Awards website and subscribe to the newsletter for updates and insights.