MTU Student Engagement

Posted on: 29 Apr 2026

The recent visit of a Portuguese higher education delegation to Munster Technological University (MTU) marked a highly successful and engaging day of collaboration, dialogue, and knowledge exchange. Bringing together representatives from a wide range of institutions, including Universidade do Porto, Universidade do Minho, Universidade de Coimbra, Instituto Politécnico de Leiria, Politécnico do Porto, and Federação Académica de Lisboa, among many others. The visit highlighted the strength and diversity of Portugal’s academic landscape and its commitment to international partnership.
 

The programme, thoughtfully structured across a full day of activities, provided a comprehensive insight into AnSEO - The Student Engagement Office at MTU’s approach to student success and institutional culture. The morning session began with a warm welcome and opening address, setting a collaborative tone for the day. Delegates were introduced to the Irish national context for student success from Dr. Sharon McGreevy of the HEA, followed by presentations on how MTU supports the student journey through engagement initiatives and institutional supports. These sessions sparked meaningful discussion and reflection among attendees.

A standout feature of the morning was the interactive “World Café” and student panel discussions, where delegates engaged directly with students and staff. This provided valuable, real-world perspectives on student engagement strategies and allowed for open exchange of ideas and best practices.

The visit also included a formal meeting with MTU President Professor Maggie Cusack, offering an opportunity to strengthen institutional ties through the signing of the Visitor’s Book and a shared commitment to future collaboration. Informal networking over lunch and a campus stroll further deepened connections, fostering a spirit of collegiality and partnership.

In the afternoon, the focus shifted to key themes of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), with presentations from Jackie Gallagher, Lecturer in the Deptartment of Health and Leisure Studies at MTU and Monica Moisuc, MTU's EDI Officer, respectively. These sessions demonstrated MTU’s holistic and inclusive approach to education, resonating strongly with the visiting delegation. The day concluded with closing remarks that reflected on the shared insights and the potential for continued cooperation.

Overall, the visit was a resounding success. It not only showcased MTU’s innovative practices but also created a dynamic platform for international engagement. The breadth of institutions represented and the depth of interaction throughout the day underscored a shared commitment to enhancing student success and building lasting academic partnerships between Ireland and Portugal.