Advertising Feature
An advertising feature is created, supplied and paid for by a commercial client and promoted by the Irish Times Content Studio. The Irish Times newsroom or other editorial departments are not involved in the production of advertising features.

Upskill in AI with new micro-qualifications from Skills to Advance

Bite-sized, subsidised courses from Skills to Advance can help citizens and businesses understand and use AI safely and efficiently

Skills to Advance courses, including micro-qualifications, are delivered locally by the network of 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs) nationwide
Skills to Advance courses, including micro-qualifications, are delivered locally by the network of 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs) nationwide
Thu Jan 22 2026 - 05:00 • 2 MIN READ

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries across Ireland and beyond. Recognising the growing need for accessible, relevant training, Skills to Advance has launched new AI micro-qualifications. These short, targeted courses offer citizens, employees and the wider business community a unique opportunity to upskill and learn about essential topics such as machine learning basics, ethical AI, data analysis, and practical use cases relevant to Irish businesses.

Skills to Advance is a national upskilling and reskilling initiative of Solas and the Education and Training Boards. Included in the Skills to Advance offering are Further Education and Training (FET) micro-qualifications: bite-sized, accredited courses that provide targeted training in emerging skill areas. Micro-qualifications are highly subsidised, flexibly delivered, and short in duration – typically 50 hours of tutor time and self-directed learning combined.

All Skills to Advance courses, including micro-qualifications, are delivered locally by the network of 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs) nationwide. Programmes are scheduled around the operating needs of businesses, and can be delivered in person, online, or in blended learning formats. Tutor support and online digital resources are also provided to enhance the learning experience.

The new AI micro-qualifications are accredited at Levels 4 to 6 on the National Framework of Qualifications. Courses include:

READ MORE

How Trinity College Dublin is supporting Ireland’s SMEs to success

Aiming for a world-class employee experience

Meta and Deloitte’s Llama for Good hackathon does a power of good for Irish social enterprises

Translating practical experience into real world solutions for clients

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (Level 4)

This programme is designed to equip participants with foundational knowledge, skills and competencies in the rapidly evolving area of AI. Participants will gain an understanding of AI concepts, practical applications and ethical considerations, and have opportunities to enhance their problem-solving abilities.

Enhancing Productivity with AI (Level 5)

This programme will demystify Generative AI (GenAI) and empower employees to confidently begin integrating tools and technologies into their professional environments. The programme seeks to bridge the gap between the theoretical knowledge of AI and its practical application, enabling participants to critically consider how to harness the potential of GenAI.

AI Strategic Planning and Legal Review (Level 6)

Coming early 2026, this programme contains two micro-qualifications: 1) AI Legal and Ethical Considerations, and 2) Strategic Planning for AI. These micro-qualifications can be completed individually or combined, are designed to equip employees with the knowledge, skills, and practical tools required to support the responsible and strategic adoption of AI and GenAI in workplace and organisational contexts.

Learn how to harness the potential of emerging technologies safely and effectively today. Contact your local ETB about the AI micro-qualifications on offer in your area, or find out more at skillstoadvance.ie