30 Jun 2006

Ernst & Young, Cork supports UCC Access Programme

Ernst & Young has lent its support to University College Cork's (UCC's) Access Programme by sponsoring a number of students over a four year period to complete their undergraduate studies at UCC.

The Access Programme at University College Cork provides support for students who have the ability to benefit from and succeed in higher education but who, for a variety of social and economic reasons are under represented at third level. The programme seeks to target the most able students within linked second level schools and to provide motivational, educational and financial assistance to them through out their secondary schooling to enhance their ability to compete for third level places.  The programme also recognises the need to influence the educational aspirations and achievements of a wider circle of students in the schools, and the necessity to seek to influence the educational ethos of the whole school.  To date, over 400 students have been admitted to UCC through the programme across all faculties with over 150 students having graduated.

The supports and services offered by the Access programme to identify and overcome the cultural and economic barriers facing those from disadvantaged groups and low participation schools and neighborhoods are continually expanding.

At the recent presentation to UCC, Mr John Higgins, Managing Partner Ernst & Young Cork said "we are delighted to be associated with this important university project and our support demonstrates Ernst & Young's commitment to supporting those that are educationally disadvantaged in our community.

Mr Cal Healy, Development Manager UCC, on receipt of the gift expressed the sincerest gratitude of the University and emphasized the need which it has of consolidating its relationship with partners such as Ernst & Young to enable it deliver on its strategic plans for growth of the Access Programme.

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