Laois Offaly ETB nominated for prestigious adult learning awards
Laois Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB) is celebrating a hat-trick of award nominations as three of its adult education programmes have been shortlisted for this year's Aontas STAR Awards.
The nominees for the 19th annual STAR Awards showcase 24 outstanding adult education initiatives across Ireland.
The STAR Awards—short for "Showcasing Teamwork, Awarding Recognition"—celebrate outstanding initiatives that empower local communities through adult learning.
Transformative Journeys for Traveller Women, a Laois Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB) programme that empowers individuals who have experienced cumulative trauma, has been shortlisted in the 'Social Inclusion' category.
Dignity Partnership, a civic education initiative that promotes inclusion and integration for international protection applicants, refugees, and vulnerable migrants in Irish society, is nominated in the 'Global Citizenship Education' category.
Meanwhile, Beyond Barriers, an LOETB project that amplifies the voices of adult learners in their literacy service, is in the running for a 'Learner Voice' category award.
Speaking about this year's STAR Awards shortlist, Aontas CEO Dearbháil Lawless said: "Our STAR Awards shortlist is a wonderful example of the vibrant programmes on offer in adult and community education across the island of Ireland."
The STAR Awards 2025 winners will be unveiled at Croke Park on Friday, March 7, hosted by a special celebrity guest.