Higher Education students from South West College (SWC) will gather with family and friends on Wednesday 10 December 2025 to celebrate their academic achievements at the annual graduation ceremony, taking place at The Strule Arts Centre, Omagh.
This year’s event will recognise the accomplishments of more than 500 graduates. The ceremony will include addresses from Dr Nicholas O’Shiel, Chair of the Governing Body; Celine McCartan, College Chief Executive and Principal; and guest speaker Annette Palmer, Director of Tertiary Education at the Department for Education. A student vote of thanks will be delivered by Emmet Keenan, who is completing the Ulster University Foundation Degree in Integrative Counselling Practice.
More than thirty special ‘Student of the Year’ awards will also be presented, celebrating exceptional achievement across a range of disciplines including Engineering, Construction, Computing, Visual Media and many more.
Congratulating students on their achievements, Celine McCartan, Chief Executive and Principal of South West College, said:
“Graduation day is always a memorable occasion and an important milestone for our students. It is an opportunity to reflect upon their individual achievements, the knowledge gained, friendships made, and experiences shared. It is a proud day not only for the students, but also for their families, friends, colleagues, and the staff of South West College who have helped guide them to this point.
“I am delighted that the College can offer unique higher-level qualifications developed to support local business. We know from our many industry partners that South West College students have the skills and qualifications they need to build successful careers. I congratulate each one of our graduates on their efforts and wish them every success for the future. I know they will do South West College proud and be strong ambassadors for the College.”
Reflecting on his journey, vote of thanks speaker Emmet living in Armagh and originally from Clogher said he reached a point in his career where he was ready for a new direction and chose counselling as his next step. Balancing full-time work with study was a big decision, but one he is glad he made.