Fetch a dog-torate degree with MTU
Round of a-paws for the Cork university that has been let off the leash and will partner with paw-sibly one of Cork’s favourite charities!
Munster Technological University (MTU) and Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to maximise the collaboration between the organisations.
Under this MOU, MTU and Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind will work together to collaborate on a range of strategic initiatives, including:
- The establishment of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind training routes on MTU campuses across the south west
- Sourcing puppy raisers from the MTU community
- Organisation of MTU student and staff awareness events and on-campus fundraising events to highlight the work of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind
- Participation in the MTU Innovation Challenges, where MTU students work to design solutions to challenges for guide and assistance dog users
- Promotion of access to higher education services for those who use the services of Irish Guide Dogs for the BlindExploration of the use of artificial intelligence to help with guide dogs, assistance dogs and community dogs training and/or management.
MTU President Prof. Maggie Cusack said: “This partnership with Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind reflects MTU’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. It will also help identify new areas for research and collaboration especially in emerging technologies like AI.
“We look forward to working with Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind to create an environment where every individual can reach their full potential with MTU through education, research and respect for diversity.”
Michael Loftus, Vice President for External Affairs, continued: “MTU is dedicated to engaging with all of our stakeholders in a manner which is strategically meaningful and impactful. Through this new partnership, we will ensure that Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind achieves maximum benefit from engaging with the MTU community, while also pursuing research and innovation opportunities which ultimately benefit the charity’s clients.”
Tim O’Mahony, Chief Executive Officer, Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind said: “Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind has a long-standing relationship with MTU, built through various research projects and internships. We are excited that this formal partnership will further enhance the training of our guide dogs, assistance dogs, and community dogs.”
“As part of our pups' training, it's crucial for them to become accustomed to a variety of environments. What better setting than the lively, dynamic atmosphere of the MTU campuses? A key focus of this collaboration will be to work alongside the MTU team to develop innovative training methods that will further empower our clients in their daily lives.
“We look forward to engaging with the president, staff, and students of MTU—and who knows, we may even inspire some to volunteer as puppy raisers!”