In a landmark moment for education and cross-border cooperation, the first-ever all-island apprenticeship programme has been launched, marking a new chapter in how Ireland and Northern Ireland develop talent for the future. The Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship, developed by ATI and delivered jointly by Technological University of the Shannon and The Open University in Northern Ireland, will equip learners with cutting-edge skills in digital finance and sustainability, responding to the evolving demands of the sector.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Tánaiste Simon Harris, Minister for Further and Higher
Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD, Minister for the Economy in Northern Ireland Dr Caoimhe Archibald, Minister of State Marian Harkin, and Gillian Doherty, COO of ATI, today officially launched the programme.Developed by ATI, the Certified Accounting Technologist’s new role bridges the gap between the traditional Accounting Technician and a fully qualified accountant. The apprenticeship was created in response to the disruptive impact of AI and emerging sustainability reporting requirements. Learners will gain the skills needed to support finance teams in transitioning to digital and sustainable economic models, positioning them to add strategic value in a rapidly evolving sector.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said “The launch of the new all-island Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship is a landmark in our shared approach to skills, opportunity and economic development. It reflects our commitment to working together across this island to prepare people for the future economy, and to ensure that talent and innovation can thrive in every community. This apprenticeship is a strong example of what we can achieve through practical cooperation and shared ambition.”
Tánaiste Simon Harris added “By investing in apprenticeships like this, we are showing that opportunity should know no borders and that talent can be nurtured through many different pathways. This all-island programme is a powerful example of what we can achieve through partnership, innovation and a shared commitment to preparing people for the future world of work. The Certified Accounting Technologist is an entirely new occupation, and Ireland is excited for the opportunities that it will create.”
Minister Lawless said: "The launch of the first apprenticeship delivered in both Ireland and Northern Ireland is a landmark achievement in our shared ambition to build a future-ready workforce across the island. It strengthens economic cooperation and competitiveness on a North-South basis and reflects the kind of practical collaboration that drives long-term prosperity.
“In today’s global knowledge economy, talent and ideas are our most valuable resources, and our people are our greatest natural asset. The Certified Accounting Technologist will play a vital role in linking traditional accounting and corporate reporting with cutting-edge areas such as sustainability, AI and analytics, equipping learners with the skills to lead in a rapidly evolving sector.
“This is more than an apprenticeship. It is a blueprint for how we grow talent, foster innovation, and shape the future of work on an all-island basis.
“I commend all partners for their vision and collaboration in delivering an apprenticeship that embodies innovation, inclusion and strategic foresight. I look forward to seeing this programme as a foundation for deeper cooperation on skills and talent development across our island.”
Minister Archibald said: “I am committed to expanding apprenticeship opportunities across the island, fostering cross-border collaboration and shared growth.
“The new All Island Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship is a major step forward. It enhances our curriculum and prepares learners for the evolving demands of the accounting profession.
“This programme directly addresses the rise of artificial intelligence and the growing need for sustainability reporting—skills now essential for modern accounting professionals.
“Government departments and organisations are now required to include environmental, social, and governance disclosures in their annual reports, promoting transparency and accountability.”
Minister Harkin added “This new apprenticeship marks the 78th addition to our growing portfolio, showcasing the breadth of opportunities now available. It represents a significant step forward in how we educate, train, and connect talent on an all – island basis.
“It reflects our commitment to innovation in learning and to creating inclusive pathways into high-value careers in the world of finance. Through North-South collaboration, we’re not only expanding access to opportunity, we’re shaping a more agile, skilled, and collaborative workforce for the future.”
Gillian Doherty COO ATI said: "Business environments are changing at an unprecedented pace due to technological innovation, sustainability imperatives, and evolving regulatory frameworks, ATI’s Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship is particularly relevant for organisations focused on ESG implementation, digital transformation initiatives, and data-driven decision-making. It creates sustainable finance careers by developing essential capabilities in AI, data analytics, ESG reporting, cybersecurity, and digital transformation, competencies that are increasingly in-demand but often absent from traditional accounting qualifications”.
NOTES
The Accounting Technologist programme leads to a common BSc (Hons) in Accounting Technology, validated as Level 8 by Technological University of the Shannon and Level 6 by The Open University in the UK.
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