Gino Kenny (Dublin Mid West, People Before Profit Alliance)
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225. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if there is a recognition of prior learning for asylum seekers and refugees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23352/19]

Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael)
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The recognition of prior learning (RPL) describes a process used to evaluate knowledge or skill acquired outside the formal education system for the purpose of recognising competence against a given set of standards, competencies or learning outcomes. 

Under the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act 2012 individuals including asylum seekers and refugees can approach Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) directly to enquire about RPL opportunities and to seek information on gaining certification for existing knowledge, skill or competence.

QQI does not conduct RPL processes itself but relies upon education and training providers of relevant programmes who have the necessary expertise and experienced RPL assessors. These providers can assess learners for the purpose of recognising their existing knowledge, skill and competence for the purpose of access to a further or higher education and training programme or towards an award.