ITS GRADUATION CEREMONY

The Institute of International Trade of Ireland (IITI) held their 50th Conferring Ceremony for Graduates on 16 October 2003, which was kindly hosted by the National College of Ireland. The eBSI management and tutors were proud to see ITS graduates receive their qualifications. The evening was especially notable as it was the 50th anniversary of the Institute awarding professional certifications in International Trade.

The conferral Ceremony was held at the National College of Ireland. The ceremony was opened by Mr. Chris O’Shea, Education Programmes Coordinator, IITI. Chris congratulated the graduates on the joyous occasion and expressed his sincere thanks to the hosts of the evening, sponsors, tutors, lecturers and examiners who contribute to the high standards of IITI’s training programmes.

This was followed by the formal address of the Minister of State Ivor Callely TD, who congratulated the IITI graduates again and wished them all the success in working in international trade. The Minister said that international trade has always been the main source of income for the Irish economy and that all efforts are maid to provide education and training in the related areas. The Minister emphasised the growing trend towards e-learning and its obvious benefits to working professionals. The government considers this form of training as the most effective in the current situation and seeks to promote it more in the future, especially among SME’s, said the Minister.

After the Minister’s address, Professor Frank Bradley, President IITI, addressed the IITI graduates as well. The President fully agreed with the Minister that nowadays education and training is the key to success, especially when the international trade environment becomes more and more demanding and competitive. The President also highlighted the value of blended or e-learning as viable options for SME’s to train their staff and ensure their qualifications are up to date.

The eBusiness School of Ireland is the only provider of International Trade Specialist Accreditation Programme (ITS), the e-learning international trade programme accredited by the IITI in Ireland.

The President proceeded to announce best students of the year and award certificates of completion to the graduates.

Best Student 2003 for ITS was awarded by the HSBC bank.

IITI Graduates and guests waiting impatiently for presentation of certificates, as an acknowledgement of their efforts and talent in pursuing the desired qualifications.

Awarding of ITS certificates by Professor Frank Bradley. ITS Graduate Tom Grace receives his Certificate

Irish Minister of State with the most distinguished students of the year, who are proudly holding their awards for outstanding achievements in the course of study.

eBSI staff and some ITS graduates with Chief Executive of the Irish Exporters Association John Whelan and Irish Minister of State Ivor Callely TD.