The Minister said: "The Further Education sector plays a key role in the social and economic development of the people of Northern Ireland.
"Open days are an excellent opportunity for parents and prospective students of all ages to learn more about the wide range of courses and facilities available at their local College. Our local Colleges offer a unique learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities, along with quality learning and support services.
"The Colleges also have collaborative links with business and industry to ensure that our courses have strong employment outcomes. Further Education Colleges play a key part in ensuring people have the skills they need to fulfil their potential, get into work, progress in work and contribute to our economy."
Open Evening at Northern Regional College, Ballymena (both Farm Lodge and Trostan Avenue Buildings) and Newtownabbey will take place on Wednesday 4th March between 4pm and 8pm. This will be for students wanting to study a full time or Work Based Learning Course in September and also for those who wish to apply for a Higher Education full-time course. Academic, careers and student support staff will be on hand at each open day to advise, guide and assist everyone attending.
Colleges Northern Ireland Chief Executive Gerry Campbell added: "The role of vocational and technical education has never been more vital to the growth and prosperity of Northern Ireland's economy. I would encourage parents, guardians and young people to take the opportunity to attend one of the FE College Open Days where they will be impressed both by the breadth of educational provision on offer and the world class facilities available."
