More than 6,000 free college places are opening up for jobseekers to provide them with the skills employers are seeking.

Education Minister Ruairi Quinn yesterday announced the second round of Springboard, offering 220 courses in universities, institutes of technology and other colleges, to people with workplace experience.

They are geared to sectors with growing employment opportunities such as medical devices, information communications technology, pharmaceuticals, food and beverages and international financial services.

Springboard, which is operated by the Higher Education Authority (HEA), was launched last year and the first 3,500 graduates are expected this month. The courses will start in June and September.

Katherine Donnelly, 22/5/2012, Irish Independent
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