Press Release: HECA Healthy Campus Forum: “Making Space for Wellness”

The Higher Education Colleges Association (HECA) is proud to announce the inaugural HECA Healthy Campus Forum, taking place on Friday, 6th December 2024, at CCT College, Westmoreland Street, Dublin 2. This landmark event, themed “Making Space for Wellness,” reflects HECA’s ongoing commitment to health-promoting initiatives within Ireland’s private and independent higher education institutions (HEIs).

The Forum will be an inspiring platform for collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing, uniting leaders in education, government, and health to further wellness initiatives that benefit students, staff, and society.

Key Event Highlights:

• Keynote Speaker: Adam Harris, CEO of AsIAm, will share insights on fostering inclusivity and wellbeing in education.
• Guest of Honour: Minister of State for the Department of Health, Colm Burke, will address the significance of health promotion in HEIs.
• Showcase of Campus Wellness Projects: Institutions will present their innovative health and wellness initiatives.
• Launch of HECA’s Healthy Campus Social Media Campaign: A movement to engage students and staff in building healthier campus environments.

• Signing of the Healthy Campus Charter: A formal commitment by HECA institutions to the principles of the National Healthy Campus Charter.

Neil Gallagher, President of CCT College and host of the Forum, will welcome representatives from HECA member institutions, including Griffith College, Dublin Business School, Hibernia College, Open Training College, Setanta College, Dorset College, Galway Business School, IICP and ICHAS. Staff, student representatives, and the HEA-National Healthy Campus Coordinator, Caroline Mahon, will also attend to share their perspectives.

A quote from the HECA/HECA Healthy Campus Committee 

“This Forum is a powerful demonstration of the collective commitment across Ireland’s private and independent higher education sector to fostering vibrant, health-promoting campuses,” said Patricia O’Sullivan, HECA Executive Director and member of the HECA Healthy Campus Committee. “By aligning with the National Healthy Campus Charter, we are championing a shared vision of holistic wellbeing that prioritises the health and success of our students, staff, and the wider community.”

A Commitment to Health and Wellness
Established in 1991, HECA represents the majority of Ireland’s private and independent HEIs, which educate 10% of the nation’s higher education student population. Through their alignment with the National Healthy Campus Charter, HECA institutions are prioritising initiatives that address physical, mental, and social wellbeing. This event will celebrate HECA’s progress and chart the path forward for embedding wellness across educational environments, ensuring sustainable and inclusive practices for students and staff alike. 

ENDS