Southern Regional College (SRC) has partnered with the Southeast Higher Education/Further Education/Industry Cross-Border Alliance (SECBA) project, officially launched at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) on 24 October 2025. Supported by PEACEPLUS and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), this landmark initiative brings together higher education, further education, and industry to address critical skills shortages across the south-east region of Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland.
Running until October 2028, the €9.7 million SECBA project will bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that learners gain industry-relevant skills while employers access a skilled and future-ready workforce.
The SECBA partnership which includes Dundalk Institute of Technology, Southern Regional College, Monaghan Institute, Cavan Institute, and Workplus has been established to meet the region’s most urgent skills challenges.
Training will focus on three key sectors experiencing rapid growth and talent shortages:
- Software Development – enhancing digital skills in AI, machine learning, and cloud computing.
- Biopharmaceuticals – providing specialist biotechnology training across production processes.
- Business and Sports Management – developing essential leadership and management skills through workshops and training sessions.
Over 3,000 participants will be recruited throughout the life of the programme, with 2,459 expected to complete accredited training. Learners will gain qualifications designed in close collaboration with industry to ensure that skills development directly supports business needs.
Upcoming courses due to commence in the new year at SRC include Level 2 qualifications in Developing Computer Applications and Data Analytics, with options to progress available in Software Development at Level 3 and Artificial intelligence available at both Level 3 and Level 4. Within the Biopharmaceuticals sector a new Laboratory Skills Level 3 Diploma will be available, with a Sports Analytics Level 2 qualification available for sports enthusiasts.
Mrs Tracy Rice, Head of Business Engagement at SRC, took part in a panel discussion, at the launch event, alongside partners from DkIT, Cavan Institute, and Monaghan Institute. The discussion explored how SECBA will benefit employers, learners, and the wider community through enhanced cross-border cooperation.
Mrs Lee Campbell, Principal & Chief Executive of Southern Regional College commented:
“By working in partnership with DkIT, Monaghan Institute, Cavan Institute, and Workplus, SRC is building a cross-border workforce equipped for the future. The SECBA initiative represents a powerful example of how education and industry can come together to tackle regional challenges, close skills gaps and drive lasting prosperity for employers, learners, and communities alike.”
