Donegal stars of all-island adult learning honoured at awards

An outstanding Donegal adult learning initiative was honoured at the 2024 Aontas Star (Showcasing Teamwork, Awarding Recognition) awards ceremony in Croke Park.

The Donegal initiative that was recognised was Trav Story Sack, Further Education and Training Centre, Ballyraine, Letterkenny, Donegal Education and Training Board.

It was the runner-up in the social inclusion category.

For this initiative, two groups of Travellers came together to collectively create a ‘story sack’, which is a bag containing a high-quality book and supporting materials to encourage further learning, with the awards being handed out last Friday, March 8. 

Each group published a children's storybook and a collection of stories that depict the culture, traditions and heritage of the Traveller community, and that reflects Traveller life in Donegal. 

This resulted in improved literacy skills for the people involved, and new resources to encourage improved literacy in their families. 

Classes were held in the local library, and all learners had an opportunity to become library members, and with the support of their tutor, they learned to use the computers and borrow books. 

To ensure accessibility for all, the participants also recorded an audio version of each book, which was then uploaded to YouTube and that can be accessed by scanning a QR code that’s on each book. 

Organised and supported by the Donegal Travellers Project, Donegal County Library, and Donegal ETB's Further Education and Training Services, the project was funded through the Adult Literacy for Life Collaboration and Innovation Fund.

The project from Donegal was among 24 adult learning initiatives nominated for STAR Awards in 2024.

To find out more about the Aontas Star Awards and opportunities in adult education, visit www.aontas.com.