Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board (KWETB) has announced the formal launch of the AI Skills and Education Hub (AISE) in Kildare Town.
The Centre was officially launched by James Lawless, TD, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, on April 27 2026.
AISE is a new initiative designed to place Further Education and Training at the centre of Ireland’s AI and digital transformation.
Based in Kildare Town, the hub will support educators, learners and enterprise to build practical, future-ready AI skills.
AISE will deliver flexible, industry aligned programmes, including accredited microqualifications, short upskilling courses and professional development for educators.
Programmes will be delivered through a blended model, combining in-person and online learning. For information on courses please go to: www.linktr.ee/kwetb_aise
A strategic collaboration with Microsoft will support programme development, certification pathways and access to industry expertise, helping to localise global AI learning resources for Irish learners.
In collaboration with Microsoft Elevate, KWETB is also delighted to launch the AI Skills for Educators course, a free two-hour online course for educators across Ireland. Teachers can enrol at: www.bit.ly/aiskills4ed
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Grounded in strong governance and a commitment to responsible and ethical AI, AISE will also act as a centre for innovation, enterprise engagement and best practice.
The initiative reinforces the vital role of Further Education and Training in supporting inclusive and sustainable digital transformation across Ireland.
Minister Lawless said: “AI adoption is one of the most significant structural forces shaping our society today, which is why the Government has committed to an ambitious programme to support AI learning and literacy.
“The launch of this AI Skills Hub as a key go-to resource for AI upskilling in Kildare and Wicklow is a clear example of how that commitment is being translated into real action and tangible benefits for local communities.
“Through this initiative, we are supporting people to build the capabilities they will need for the future. Our focus is on helping individuals confidently navigate both the challenges and the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence. This is about building confidence, strengthening skills, and ensuring that no one is left behind.”
Also speaking at the event, KWETB Chief Executive, Dr Deirdre Keyes welcomed the launch of AISE, describing it as a major innovation for the sector: “This initiative demonstrates KWETBs flexibility and ambition in responding to what the economy needs equipping people with the skills to progress in their organisations and careers”.
Microsoft Ireland’s Head of Future Skilling, Kevin Marshall, added: “AI is reshaping every sector of the Irish economy, and ensuring people have the skills to thrive in that transformation is critical.
“Through Microsoft Elevate, we are proud to collaborate with KWETB to bring world-class AI learning to communities across Kildare and Wicklow.
“The AI Skills and Education Hub is a powerful example of how further education, industry and government can come together to make AI skilling accessible, practical and inclusive, equipping learners and educators alike to shape Ireland’s digital future.”
Marshall concludes: “This collaboration builds on Microsoft’s long-standing commitment to STEM and digital skilling in Ireland, and directly supports our ambition to help Skill Up Ireland, ensuring that no one is left behind as AI transforms how we live and work.”
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