Donna McGettigan (Clare, Sinn Fein)
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1018. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to encourage greater participants by South African students in third level institutions and continuing educational opportunities in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38799/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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The Higher Education Authority estimates that there were around 240 students from South Africa enrolled in Ireland's publicly funded higher education institutions, making it the second largest source of international students from the continent of Africa. Numbers have grown strongly in recent years, with current numbers now at about 60% higher than pre-Covid levels.

Education in Ireland (EI) promotes higher education internationally on behalf of my Department. Enterprise Ireland's Cape Town office manages the Education in Ireland activity for South Africa. An education consultant was recently appointed by EI in Cape Town to further build the Education in Ireland brand in South Africa, promoting Ireland as location for higher education, working closely with school counsellors and education agents across the country. The Education in Ireland team engages year round with prospective students in South Africa at undergraduate and postgraduate level, and supports Irish HEI representatives on promotional visits to South Africa.

Making Ireland a first-choice destination for international learners, researchers and innovators is a key pillar of Global Citizens 2030, Ireland’s international Talent & Innovation strategy.