Ireland’s digital transformation agenda is advancing further as Atlantic Technological University (ATU) and Vodafone Ireland secure €4.6 million from the EU’s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Digital Fund to develop new digital technologies for hybrid apprenticeship programmes.

With both organisations co-investing, the total investment in Irish education reaches €6.25 million.

The project introduces extended reality (XR) labs powered by a dedicated private 5G standalone network and edge computing, delivering immersive online and on-campus apprenticeship courses in engineering and construction across ATU Donegal, Galway and Sligo.

Students in the pilot phase at ATU Donegal will access virtual and augmented environments replicating workshops and laboratories. Training tools include virtual construction labs, digital building models, and 3D video-based simulations designed to enhance practical skills in controlled virtual spaces.

These digital technologies aim to make learning more accessible for rural students or those balancing work alongside study. High-bandwidth 5G connectivity and immersive virtual environments create flexible, scalable pathways for upskilling in sectors with talent shortages.

The initiative forms part of 5G-SHARE, a €12.3 million European programme promoting collaboration between universities in Ireland, Romania and the Czech Republic to test 5G-enabled teaching models.

Sheila Kavanagh, Network Director at Vodafone Ireland, said, “This fund was secured following a shared vision and strong collaboration between ATU, Vodafone and Government and we’re proud to be part of it. 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 article to see how this initiative is shaping Ireland’s next-generation digital education landscape.