Multi-annual partnership with DkIT signed by ABP Food Group

A new collaboration has been established to foster growth in academic program enhancement, nurturing graduate talent, and advancing research and innovation within the food and science sectors. Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) has officially announced its collaboration with ABP Food Group, a leading food processor in Europe. This partnership, set to last for three years, aims to introduce a talent development pathway at DkIT and enhance research cooperation in the fields of science, engineering, and business. Expanding upon their prior relationship, ABP and DkIT's renewed partnership will concentrate on academic program enhancement, collaborative research projects, and joint marketing and sponsorship endeavors. Additionally, the partnership will assess the potential for a new joint venture aimed at establishing a specialized meat industry research and development facility at DkIT. The announcement was made at the DkIT Industry Showcase, which was inaugurated by Heather Humphreys TD, Minister for Business, Enterprise, and Innovation. Minister Humphreys expressed her support for the partnership, highlighting its significance for the agri-food sector's innovation and the Irish economy. She emphasized the benefits of such collaborations for regional economic growth, local employment opportunities for graduates and professionals, and the competitive edge it provides businesses through access to cutting-edge technology and knowledge. DkIT President, Michael Mulvey PhD, also spoke at the event, expressing enthusiasm for the partnership with ABP Food Group. He noted ABP's alignment with DkIT's practice-based education approach and its history of employing DkIT graduates. Mulvey is optimistic that the partnership will create new opportunities for both entities and contribute to the development of the agri-food sector, which is crucial for the region. Martin Kane, Managing Director for ABP Ireland and Poland, remarked on the longstanding relationship between DkIT and ABP, looking forward to elevating this partnership. He highlighted the partnership's focus on developing specialized courses for students interested in the agri-food sector, aiming to equip them with the skills needed for a dynamic international environment. Kane emphasized the multidisciplinary nature of the partnership, involving various DkIT departments and supporting research and innovation projects. The DkIT Industry Showcase featured over 100 industries from the North Leinster South Ulster region, with presentations and workshops demonstrating successful industry-academia engagement and available supports for research and innovation investment. Notable speakers included Julie Sinnamon, CEO of Enterprise Ireland, and Anita Finnegan, CEO of DkIT Spin-out, Nova Leah. Minister Humphreys, who delivered a welcome address at the Showcase, praised the potential of Irish higher education institutions in transforming publicly-funded research into innovative technologies and spin-out companies, commending DkIT's track record in this area.