The Irish Government has introduced a new national artificial intelligence training initiative aimed at helping people across the country develop practical AI skills for work, education and everyday life.
The platform, called AIReady.ie, provides free online courses designed to introduce users to the basics of artificial intelligence in an accessible and flexible format. Officials say the programme is intended to support individuals with little or no technical background as AI becomes increasingly integrated into workplaces and public services.
At launch, the platform offers four short courses tailored to specific groups, including older adults, small business owners such as sole traders and farmers, and people returning to employment. Each course takes less than 30 minutes to complete and can be accessed on smartphones, tablets or laptops, allowing users to learn at their own pace.
The initiative has been developed by SOLAS in partnership with the National Skills Council. It is designed to remove barriers to digital learning and ensure that people from all sectors of society can engage with emerging technologies.
Minister for Further and Higher Education James Lawless said the programme is part of a wider effort to prepare the workforce for rapid technological change. He said the Government aims to upskill one million people in artificial intelligence through the platform.
He added that AI readiness is now a core requirement for participation in modern society, noting that the focus of the initiative is not only on technology but also on building confidence and understanding among users.
Chairperson of the National Skills Council, Dr Kevin Marshall, said the platform provides a simple entry point for anyone interested in learning about AI. He said the goal is to ensure that people of all ages and backgrounds feel able to engage with the technology without intimidation.
SOLAS Chief Executive Deirdre McDonnell said the launch represents a significant step in expanding access to digital skills nationwide. She said the initiative will help lay the foundation for lifelong learning and improve opportunities for progression in a changing labour market.
The Government said AIReady.ie is intended to support long-term economic development by equipping people with skills that are increasingly required across sectors. Officials added that the platform will continue to expand with additional courses and resources as demand grows and technology evolves.
The initiative reflects a broader national strategy to strengthen digital capability and ensure that workers and communities are not left behind as artificial intelligence becomes more widely used in everyday services and business operations.
