Irish minister for Education and Science Batt O’Keeffe will initially lead the delegation currently in China on a trade and diplomatic mission. This after Taoiseach — Gaelic for Prime Minister — Brian Cowen postponed his participation for a few days.
A large number of senior education figures form part of the Government trade mission to China as efforts intensify to recruit international students to Ireland.
The delegation includes two university presidents; four institute of technology presidents; four university deputy or vice-presidents; and senior representatives of five other universities or institutes.
A large number of private sector institutions are also represented on the trip.
Batt O’Keeffe said last night that international students deliver over €830 million per year to the economy. In all, there are over 3,500 Chinese students in Irish higher education institutions.
Source: Irish Times