Budget spending approved for new south Kilkenny vet school

The first class of veterinary students are set to begin their studies in South Kilkenny in September 2026 with the formal government approval of a capital programme supporting the Veterinary Places Activation Programme (VPAP).

This major initiative will establish two new veterinary schools at South East Technological University (SETU) and Atlantic Technological University (ATU).

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The SETU course will see its first class of 40 students start their studies next September - with part of the course based at Kildalton College in Piltown.

These projects are being developed jointly by the departments, and this approval marks a significant milestone in the expansion of Ireland’s veterinary education capacity and will facilitate the creation of 80 additional student places annually from 2026.

Welcoming the announcement from Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD in collaboration with Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine Martin Heydon TD, President of SETU, Professor Veronica Campbell said it will be the first time a professional, veterinary programme will be available in the South East.

This positions SETU to play a pivotal role in retaining regional talent, addressing critical workforce shortages and ensuring a strong pipeline of skilled professionals to serve Ireland’s agriculture, equine and companion animal sectors.

“Central to this vision is the delivery of a modern Veterinary Medicine programme through new state-of-the-art infrastructure on our Glassworks site, complemented by a new education facility on the site of our strategic partner, Teagasc Kildalton College,” Professor Campbell said.

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Speaking after the approval of the capital programme, Minister James Lawless said: “This approval marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to expanding veterinary education in Ireland.”

Martin Heydon, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine added: “This is a hugely positive step for the agri-food sector. A strong pipeline of graduates is essential in safeguarding animal health, supporting farm productivity, and maintaining Ireland’s reputation for high-quality produce.

“These new schools will help ensure that our farming communities and food producers have access to the skilled professionals they need, as well as providing opportunities for students to study closer to home, benefitting our communities in these regions and throughout the country.”
The Higher Education Authority (HEA) will now work with SETU and ATU to initiate the design and planning phase.