HEA to Host International Conference on Inclusive Higher Education During Ireland’s EU Presidency 

Posted: 29 October, 2026

The Higher Education Authority (HEA) will host a conference on Inclusive Education: Shaping an Inclusive and Empowering Higher Education System at South East Technological University (SETU) Carlow on 29–30 October 2026. The event forms part of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026 programme.

Bringing together approximately 200 delegates from the higher education system, including a number of European speakers, the conference will provide a platform for policymakers, institutional leaders, educators, researchers and students to explore how higher education can create more inclusive, safe and empowering learning environments.

The event will showcase Ireland’s leadership in developing an inclusive higher education system and highlight national progress in widening participation and promoting equity across the sector.

As one of the key priorities of Ireland’s EU Presidency is the promotion of shared European values, the conference will examine how higher education institutions can advance equality, inclusion and student success through policy, practice and leadership.

The programme will feature keynote addresses from Irish and European experts, including representatives from the European Commission, OECD, the Institute for the Development of Education, AHEAD and the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI). Delegates will engage in discussions on creating inclusive environments, fostering inclusive institutional cultures, advancing equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), and strengthening leadership’s role in driving meaningful change.

Ahead of the event, Sheena Duffy, Head of International, Communications and EDI at the Higher Education Authority said:

‘The event reflects the HEA’s ongoing commitment to building a higher education system that is accessible, equitable and inclusive for all students. As we reflect on the progress made, the conference will provide an opportunity to shift the focus towards embedding inclusive education across institutional cultures and creating trusted environments that continue to support student success, foster a sense of belonging, and address barriers to participation in higher education.’

A series of lightning talks will showcase innovative initiatives from higher education institutions across Ireland, covering issues such as disability inclusion, anti-racism practice, tackling sexual violence and harassment, universal design for learning and student partnership approaches.

The two-day event will conclude with a higher education leadership panel featuring institutional presidents, European education leadership and student representatives discussing the future of inclusive higher education.

The conference aligns with broader European priorities around equality, inclusion, democratic participation and social cohesion, and offers an opportunity for Ireland to showcase progress and innovation in widening participation and supporting diverse student populations.

Notes to Editors

• Event: Inclusive Education: Shaping an Inclusive and Empowering Higher Education System

• Date: 29–30 October 2026

• Venue: South East Technological University (SETU), Carlow