Ronanstown Women’s CDP & UCD Higher Education Outreach Programme Women, Gender and Social Justice
Congratulations to the 22 women from NCCWN Ronanstown Women’s CDP who recently completed their Level 7 University Certificate in Women, Gender and Social Justice.
The level 7 Certificate programme ‘Women, Gender and Social Justice’ took part in the academic year September 2019-May 2020. Lectures took place in our community space Ronanstown WCDP and some weekends on UCD campus. From March 2020 contact was through WhatsApp, zoom, video and email. 22 women graduating today is a testimony to the hard work the women put in under extreme Covid 19 restrictions.
Ronanstown Women’s Community Development Project University Partnership with UCD School of Social Policy, Social Work and Social Justice is running since 1999.
RWCDP run the Community Outreach level 7 Certificate programme ‘Women, Gender and Social Justice’ in partnership with UCD. This programme is not core funded so we are dependent on available funding streams to make this a reality for our community. Students also self-fund their studies with subsided fees.
Key objectives of the project:
- To make 3rd level opportunities attainable and achievable for all. Break down the barriers of access, cost and supports.
- Local women will achieve a University Certificate in Women, Gender and Social Justice in their own community.
- Provide students with the credentials and skills necessary for further academic pursuits across a range of disciplines. Expand students’ communication, study, writing and analytical skills, consolidating and enhancing their intellectual confidence and strengthen and diversify students’ employment opportunities.
- Deliver an in-depth understanding of social injustices with a view to bring about change. Facilitate students’ increased participation in their communities, civil society and public life.
- A raising of educational expectations and achievement within the home and community.
RWCDP work closely with UCD offering Tasters Programmes, Access programmes, level 7 Certificates and supporting students to continue their studies on campus on degree and master’s programmes.
Student Testimonials January 2020
Taking the plunge to complete the Certificate in Women, Gender and Social Justice has been one of the best decisions of my life. As a stay at home Mam I would never have contemplated this journey without the encouragement and support from Ronanstown WCDP. The outreach programme is unique and I’m sure has been the start of a new journey for many women.
Personally, I’m enjoying the challenge, the learning process and developing new skills. This course has encouraged me to question and has given me an appetite to learn more. I feel that a light has been switched on and is shining bright. I hope to continue on the road of education and go on to do the degree programme in UCD. I also feel I’m a positive role model for my kids as they can see how enthusiastic I am about furthering my education and that it’s never too late…
So since starting my course I have felt a huge confidence boost in myself as I haven’t studied since School. Going back to study was a task for me, something I thought I wouldn’t be able for, having to put pen to paper and use a computer scared me. But I can now say I am so glad I done it. I have surprised myself at how comfortable I have become studying writing and using the computer it encouraged me not to give up and keep going. My family and everyone around me are so proud and encourage me to keep going. I can’t wait for the next chapter.
Being part of this group has given me a great sense of belonging. Having the opportunity to take part on this course has opened my mind to the world outside. It has given me a clearer understanding of what is happening in our society. It has given me the chance to have time for me outside the home and to look forward each week to coming to class. I have now realised my potential and allowed me to actively take part in learning and education. It has opened my mind to learning in a positive, supported and empowering way. I have my course and can’t wait each week to get to class. This opportunity has given me the chance to build my confidence in learning and to acknowledge my ability to go on to apply for university and further my education. I am very grateful for this opportunity. Thank You
Taking part in the UCD outreach programme Women Gender and Social Justice course via the woman’s group in Ronanstown has allowed me to access third level education without compromising my position as a stay at home parent. It has challenged me to maintain my ambition and push forward with a new career as a facilitator. It has strengthened my position as a facilitator by giving me in-depth knowledge of a specific topic and I have since been placed on a panel of tutors for PEIL and the NCCWN. I am currently applying for a scholarship in the Gender Studies Masters programme at UCD. The future holds no bounds for me because of the access to this programme.
