Government launches new AI skilling platform

The Government have announced the launch of a new AI skilling platform, AIReady.ie, providing people in Ireland with access to increasingly essential AI skills.

Developed by SOLAS, in partnership with the National Skills Council, it aims to make learning about AI more inclusive and accessible for all.

Despite any obstacles or prior exeprieence, it hopes to provide people with in demand skills regarding AI for work or study or everyday life.

The platform will start with providing a series of free courses, which are mainly developed to help small business owners, farmers, people returning to the workforce and older people.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Skills James Lawless launched the new service.

Speaking at the launch, he said: “Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how we work, learn and live, and ensuring people are ready for that change is one of the most important challenges we face.

“I strongly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to understand AI and to use it with confidence.

"We are now at a point where AI readiness is no longer optional – it is essential.

“Being ‘AI‑ready’ is about more than technology, it is about giving people the skills, confidence and understanding they need to participate fully in an AI‑enabled society.

"AI skills are for everyone, not just experts or specialists. You do not need a technical background to begin, and AIReady.ie has been designed to show exactly that. It is about helping people feel ready to experiment, to learn, and to grow with AI at their own pace."

Chairperson of the National Skills Council said: “As Chair of the National Skills Council, I welcome the launch of AIready, which will support the development of AI skills. We know the biggest risk today isn’t AI, it’s being unprepared to use it.

"We want people to feel like AI is accessible to them, regardless of their background or stage in life, and this new platform delivers exactly that, a simple entry point for anyone looking to start their journey with AI,” Dr Marshall said. “With the launch of AIready today, we are laying the foundations to build the AI skills our economy and society needs for the future.”

CEO of SOLAS Deirdre McDonnell said: “The launch of AI Ready marks an important step in making AI skills accessible to everyone in Ireland.

“SOLAS is proud to have partnered with the Department and National Skills Council in developing this initiative, drawing on our experience in national skills provision to help shape and deliver the AI Ready platform.

"AI Ready is about ensuring that everyone has access to foundational AI skills, providing a starting point for all, regardless of their background or experience.

"By empowering people with these essential skills, we are laying the groundwork for lifelong learning and supporting future growth and progression.”