Over 100 Cork-based people seeking protection in Ireland were honoured at a Celebration of Learning and Skills graduation ceremony hosted by SECAD Partnership CLG on Friday morning.
Held to coincide with World Refugee Day, the event marked successful completion of job skills training programmes designed to enhance employment opportunities in key sectors such as healthcare, construction, security, and hospitality.
The event brought together participants from diverse backgrounds and representing more than 15 nationalities, all of whom have taken significant steps toward building new lives in Ireland through upskilling and employment readiness.
Since 2022, SECAD has supported over 1200 individuals across Cork through the SICAP (Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme) programme, helping them integrate and contribute to local communities.
The organisation offers a range of tailored integration supports for people seeking protection, including orientation workshops and assistance in accessing local services such as health, housing, legal, and welfare supports.
Their services also include wellbeing initiatives, employment-focused training, career guidance, and support for starting a business in Ireland.
SECAD also promotes community involvement through volunteering pathways and English language support via volunteer-led conversation clubs in Youghal, Macroom, Millstreet and Cobh.
Additionally, they facilitate employer connections across sectors like healthcare, construction, and hospitality.
Minister of State (with Responsibility for Community Development and Charities) at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Jerry Buttimer TD, delivered the keynote speech to all attendees present on the day.
Minister Buttimer paid tribute to the participants and commended their commitment to learning and contribution to Irish society, whilst commending SECAD’s work within the local community, adding “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”.
Inspiring insights and personal testimonials were also provided by invited speakers to share their insights on building new lives in Ireland and integrating within their local communities.
Additional speakers on the day were Social Inclusion Programmes Manager at SECAD Toni McCaul and Ryan Howard, CEO of SECAD.
Speaking after the event, Mr Howard paid tribute to the determination of the participants:
“We are deeply proud of each participant who has shown resilience and an unwavering commitment to building a new future here in Ireland. Completion of these courses will support their future employment and enable them to further integrate into Irish society.
“This event was not only a celebration of individual achievements, but of the power of inclusive support and community collaboration – key cornerstones of SECAD’s work within local communities across Cork.
“It is a clear demonstration of what is possible when inclusive support and opportunity meet human potential,” he concluded.
The celebration also served as a valuable networking opportunity, with employers and recruiters from a range of industries—such as Dovida (a care provider), Synergy Security Solutions, and agencies like Hays Recruitment, Ward Personnel, and FRS Recruitment—engaging with participants to discuss potential employment pathways.
For further information on community development and integration services provided by SECAD, visit: www.secad.ie
