MTU Officially Launches National Digital Leadership Network

Munster Technological University (MTU) today hosted the official launch of the National Digital Leadership Network (NDLN), a new initiative designed to drive and support digital leadership across Ireland’s Technological University sector. Over 260 participants registered for this hybrid event, which took place at the Melbourn Building in MTU’s Bishopstown Campus and online.

Established under the N-TUTORR programme, with financial support from the EU’s NextGenerationEU, one of the key achievements of the network to date has been the commissioning of ten strategic reports by leading Irish and international experts. These reports address pressing themes for higher education in the digital age, including the role of generative AI in teaching, micro-credentialing, digital resilience, academic integrity, and data-driven decision-making.

“Today’s event is about an initiative of strategic importance not just to MTU, but to the entire Technological University sector,” said Professor Maggie Cusack, President of MTU, in her opening address. “In a world increasingly shaped by digital developments, this network is both timely and necessary. The NDLN offers a collaborative space for institutions to share expertise, align strategies, and maintain the values of equity, integrity, and inclusion in higher education.”

The launch featured remarks from key contributors, including Dr. Sharon Flynn (N-TUTORR coordinator) and Frances O’Connell (Vice President for Student Education and Experience, TUS), as well as the report authors, including well-known writers and researchers such as Professor Peter Bryant (University of Sydney, Australia), Professor Sarah Elaine Eaton (University of Calgary, Canada), Professor Martin Weller (The Open University, UK), Professor Richard Watermeyer (University of Bristol, UK) and Professor Mairéad Pratschke.

Dr. Gearóid Ó Súilleabháin, Chair of the NDLN and Head of MTU’s Department of Technology Enhanced Learning, emphasised the network’s commitment to inclusive digital transformation across the sector. “Digital leadership isn’t about technology for technology’s sake,” he said. “It’s about strategic alignment, cultural change, and ensuring our investments genuinely enhance education, research, and societal impact.”

As part of proceedings, NDLN report authors each briefly introduced their work for the network, outlining the focus, scope, and key findings of their strategic reports -- ranging from developing ethical approaches to generative AI to the implementing new models for learning, teaching, and assessment amid ongoing digital developments. A recurring theme throughout the session was the importance of collaboration among higher education institutions, workplace partners, and government bodies to drive innovation while staying aligned with the principles of quality, integrity, and inclusivity in education. 

Dr Sharon Flynn, National Coordinator of the N-TUTORR programme, praised the establishment of the NDLN as a natural extension of the transformative impact that N-TUTORR has had on the sector. “The NDLN exemplifies the original purpose and ongoing legacy of N-TUTORR—fostering digital leadership and collaborative excellence across our technological universities,” she remarked.

MTU’s President Cusack commended the collective efforts behind the network’s establishment, acknowledging the dedication of Dr Ó Súilleabháin and the national steering board, along with the expert authors who contributed their expertise.

The hybrid event also featured interactive audience engagement through live polls, capturing real-time input on key digital trends and priorities. The session concluded with an expert panel addressing audience-selected questions. 

The launch of the NDLN firmly positions Munster Technological University and its partner institutions at the forefront of digital educational leadership, equipping the Irish higher education sector to actively shape rather than merely respond to future technological advancements.

For more information about the National Digital Leadership Network and to access the ten strategic reports, visit www.ndln.ie