XR Hub launches with Open Day in Sligo
The launch of XR Hub in Strandhill marks an exciting step forward for immersive technology in Ireland. Not only does it create a new centre for innovation in the North West, it will also serve as the home of the immersive technologies apprenticeship being delivered with Mayo Sligo Leitrim Education and Training Board - a vital pathway for developing the next generation of talent. In the meantime the Level 5 Immersive Technology training there is building capacity and train the trainer capabilities across Ireland.
It has been our pleasure at Eirmersive to support the development of the apprenticeship, by helping to strengthen the connection between education and industry, to ensure the programme is informed by real sector needs and emerging practice.
In Strandhill Eirmersive members were out in force. Paul O'Brien & Celine Hayden from Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board brought their VR Healthcare demo.
“The showcase gave students and visitors a valuable insight into how immersive technology is already being used in education and training to support practical, applied learning in healthcare. It is a powerful example of technology being used with real purpose and learning value in education”, said Iris Kerssebeeck, Interim Programme Manager for the Immersive Technology Apprenticeship Ireland.
Also making the trip from Waterford was Aaron Jay of Emagine who was acknowledged for the continued support he has given to the development of the Immersive Technology Apprenticeship programme.
In thanking him Iris Kerssebeeck said, “As Chair of the Immersive Technology Apprenticeship Consortium Steering Group, you have played an important role in helping strengthen the connection between education and industry, ensuring the programme is informed by real sector needs, emerging practice and future skills demand”
Daithi Magner and Jacinta Moore brought their usual creativity and innovation to the event. Their Virtual Museum of Art and Augmented Reality Art Gallery added a unique dimension to the day, showing students how art and immersive technology can come together in exciting and unexpected ways. Those students were clearly amazed by the experience, which it sparked genuine curiosity and conversation throughout the evening.
Well done to Iris Kerssebeeck, Siobhan Magner and all concerned for making the Open Day such a memorable experience.