The Technological University of the Shannon, which has campuses in Ennis, Clonmel, Thurles, Athlone and Limerick, announced the office opening on April 22 with a launch ceremony.
The office will serve as a “pivotal hub” for new academic and research collaborations with institutions across the region.
The decision to establish a physical presence in Mexico will help supercharge the amount of Latin American students at the university across Ireland.
At present, just under 50 students from the region study at the institution, a spokesperson confirmed to The PIE.
“Latin America holds immense potential for academic collaboration and innovation, and our presence in Mexico City underscores our commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships in the region,” said VP international at TUS, Donnacha McNamara.
The office will begin with just one staff member onsite, with a further 20 staff supporting the office virtually from locations worldwide, the spokesperson said.
During the launch ceremony, which was attended by Education in Ireland and “influencers in education” from Mexico among others, partnerships were also signed with the Universidad Panamericana in Mexico City and UNIVA, based in Guadalajara.
The spokesperson described the move as a “holistic effort” not just encompassing student recruitment, but also through academic and other partnerships.
“Latin America holds immense potential for academic collaboration”
“Through this office, we look forward to engaging with students, scholars, and industry leaders across Latin America to drive impactful research, exchange knowledge, and shape the future of education together,” McNamara added.
Ireland has long been a popular alternative destination to the UK, US and Canada for international students from various countries in Latin America.
Especially popular for English language students, Brazil was an “important” country in Ireland’s last tally of ELT students in 2023, with Mexico and Argentina tapped as growth markets.