Stormont Reception

Students with the IAESTE programme were welcomed to Northern Ireland at a reception in Parliament Buildings, Stormont, by Maria Eagle, Employment and Learning Minister, on Wed 26 July.

The event was attended by approx 70 students from 38 countries, all in Northern Ireland to take up course-related work placements with local companies and university departments. Also in attendance were representatives of Queen's University Belfast, the University of Ulster and many of our local IAESTE employers, including the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, B/E Aerospace Ltd and Armagh Observatory.

"The fact that you have chosen to come to Northern Ireland to gain experience is an excellent reflection of the international standing the Northern Ireland education system enjoys abroad" commented Maria Eagle. "The programme, which will provide both you and your employers with tangible benefits, is only possible with the continued support of the Northern Ireland universities and local employers.

In 2006 the IAESTE NI office, funded by Department of Education Northern Ireland, also arranged placements for over 60 science and engineering undergraduates on reciprocal placements in countries around the world, including Egypt, Brazil, Japan, India and countries throughout Europe.