More than 100 Cork-based people seeking protection in Ireland marked a significant milestone in their integration journey on Friday morning, graduating from job skills training programmes designed to boost employment opportunities across key local sectors.
The celebration of learning ceremony, hosted by SECAD Partnership CLG, was deliberately timed to coincide with World Refugee Day, highlighting the achievements of participants from over 15 nationalities who have been working to build new lives in Cork through upskilling and employment preparation.
The graduates completed training programmes focused on sectors where Cork has strong employment demand: healthcare, construction, security, and hospitality. Since 2022, SECAD has supported more than 1,200 individuals across Cork through the SICAP (Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme), helping them integrate into local communities.
Jerry Buttimer TD, Minister of State with Responsibility for Community Development and Charities, delivered the keynote address, paying tribute to the participants’ commitment.
“Today’s celebration event marking the completion of this suite of skills training programmes is testament to the determination and resolve of our new arrivals in rebuilding their lives with a view to contributing to Irish society.”
The event served as more than just a graduation ceremony, with employers and recruiters from various industries attending to discuss potential employment pathways with participants. Companies represented included care provider Dovida, Synergy Security Solutions, and recruitment agencies Hays, Ward Personnel, and FRS Recruitment.
SECAD’s comprehensive support extends beyond job training to include orientation workshops, assistance accessing local health, housing, legal, and welfare services, wellbeing initiatives, career guidance, and business start-up support. The organisation also runs volunteer-led English conversation clubs in Youghal, Macroom, Millstreet, and Cobh.
Ryan Howard, CEO of SECAD, emphasised the significance of the achievement:
“We are deeply proud of each participant who has shown resilience and an unwavering commitment to building a new future here in Ireland. This event was not only a celebration of individual achievements, but of the power of inclusive support and community collaboration. It is a clear demonstration of what is possible when inclusive support and opportunity meet human potential.”
The ceremony also featured personal testimonials from participants sharing insights on building new lives in Ireland and integrating within local communities. Additional speakers included Toni McCaul, Social Inclusion Programmes Manager at SECAD.
For further information about SECAD’s community development and integration services, visit www.secad.ie.