SETU has delivered the first in-person higher education tertiary programme in an Irish prison setting, marking a significant milestone in expanding access to education and supporting rehabilitation through learning.
This pioneering achievement was celebrated at a Presentation of Awards ceremony at Portlaoise Prison to mark the academic success of participating learners. This milestone has been made possible through Systems Performance Funding, awarded by the Higher Education Authority (HEA), supporting SETU’s work in widening access for marginalised groups.
"This initiative demonstrates the transformative power of education and SETU’s commitment to widening access to those who have been traditionally excluded from higher education. Delivering an in-person university experience within a prison setting is a landmark achievement, not just for SETU, but for the Irish higher education system, and it reflects what can be achieved through strong partnership and a shared commitment to inclusion."
David Denieffe Chief Operations Officer, SETU
“I am proud to support this pioneering initiative, which demonstrates the real impact that meaningful partnership can have in the lives of people in custody. Education plays a vital role in rehabilitation, helping individuals build confidence, develop new skills, and prepare for a safer return to their communities. I commend the learners on their achievements and acknowledge the dedication of SETU and LOETB staff who have worked with us to make this first in‑person university programme in an Irish prison a reality.”
Caron McCaffrey Director General, Irish Prison Service
The programme, delivered in partnership with the Irish Prison Service (IPS) and Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB), enables individuals in custody to complete accredited university modules on site as part of SETU’s Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Community Development, a model that represents a first of its kind in the Irish prison system.
Research consistently highlights the transformative impact of education in custody, with participation linked to improved confidence, personal development, and reduced likelihood of reoffending. This programme demonstrates how collaborative, in-person higher education can play a central role in rehabilitation and the development of safer communities.
“This programme has been hugely successful for the benefit of our learners, they have worked hard to achieve their certificates today. It has been hugely impactful for our students, and it has been a pleasure to support them along the way.”
David Higgins Supervising Teacher at the Education Unit of Portlaoise Prison, and of LOETB
Building on the highly successful pilot initiative by SETU and the IPS, entitled 'A Footbridge to the Pathway' that began in February 2024, the partnership has resulted in 29 participants engaging in the programme. These students have completed a total of 74 QQI level 6 modules.
As of June 2026, four students have fulfilled the requirements for the first year, or 60 credits, of SETU’s degree in leadership and community development, with further learners expected to complete this over the coming year.
This initiative has brought the university experience inside prison walls, opening elements of higher education such as lectures, group learning, discussion and debate, in a manner not previously accessible within this context. Students have engaged with programme content and taken on the challenge of critically analysing issues such as democracy, citizenship, the environment, and social action, sowing seeds for future restoration within their families and communities.
The Presentation of Awards ceremony marks an important milestone not only for the learners involved, but also for the continued development of innovative, inclusive education models within Ireland’s prison system. While this concludes the pilot phase of this initiative, partners aim to expand their provision to more learners into the future.
As a token of appreciation for the collaborative work undertaken, SETU staff were presented with a stone plaque crafted by teacher, Nettie Emerson, and her students from Portlaoise Prison. The plaque is inscribed with a quote, “Knowledge is power, information is liberating, education is the premise,” attributed to Kofi Annan, former United Nations Secretary General.