06 January, 2023

The Inclusive National Higher Education Forum (INHEF) had its first ever symposium on November 25th in MTU Cork School of Music. The first of its kind in Ireland this symposium provided a collaborative platform for people in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to demonstrate their advances in providing for the diverse student body that reflects Ireland’s post-secondary population’s strengths and needs. Further, it provided a space for persons with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) to relate their educational journeys and to challenge HEIs in advancing their inclusive thinking, acting, planning and policy development.

It was a fully hybrid event and made as accessible as possible to all. CSM welcomed 90 in-person attendees and 80 registered to attend online.

INHEF 2022 had two keynotes from the U.S.  as well as eight presentations from HEIs all over Ireland including MTU (Crawford Supported Studios and Kerry/St John of Gods Skills for Life). The presentations varied in style including reports and findings from academics, stories from learners and graduates,  music performances with learners on the CSM Inclusive Music Ensemble, audience participation pieces , and disability & industry sector engagement. There were also media stations and posters with further information on developments and experience of learners.