THE British Government has announced a £2m funding injection to support integrated education in Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn confirmed the amount while visiting an integrated secondary school in Co. Tyrone this week, as students returned for a new academic year.
Mr Benn met with staff and students at Integrated College Dungannon to “see first-hand how integrated education in Northern Ireland is delivering reconciliation and helping to build stronger communities” his department confirmed.
Established in 1995 with just 60 pupils and 10 staff, the college now has 780 pupils and 130 staff.
“Integrated education is reconciliation in action,” Mr Benn said.
“Every day, young people from different backgrounds are learning together, forming friendships, and building a shared experience that will help shape Northern Ireland’s future,” he added.
“Our mission is to help every child to achieve and thrive at school, through excellent teaching and high standards."
Mr Benn helped plant an acorn tree in celebration of the school’s 30th anniversary during his visit, where he confirmed the Government's £2m investment.
"[This] investment demonstrates our commitment to breaking down barriers to opportunity through practical action, not just words," he said.
"Through this Government’s Plan for Change, we want to ensure children are given the best start in life, and by investing in integrated education, we are investing in the next generation who will continue to build upon Northern Ireland’s lasting peace," he added.
Maura McKenna, Vice Principal of the college said they "see the benefits of young people from different backgrounds learning together" every day.
She added that it helps them "form a diverse range of friendships, and develop an understanding and respect that will serve them throughout their lives"
