Deputy Mayor graduates from University of Galway with Diploma in Community Development Practice
Thu, February 01, 2024
Deputy Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Margaret-Anne McKillop and Council’s funding support officer, Garry Cardwell have graduated from the University of Galway, after completing a Diploma in Community Development Practice.
Almost 20 people from the local area completed the course, which was delivered in Ballymoney in association with the Rural Community Network. The course was designed to increase participants’ understanding of community development and enhance effective leadership.
Cllr McKillop said: “This was a fantastic opportunity to join with people from diverse backgrounds, who all brought so much experience and knowledge to the course. I love working with the community and this course has helped me to develop my skills in that area.”
Kate Clifford, Director of Rural Community Network and course tutor, said: “After undertaking an adult education course on a weekly basis for 32 weeks, including weekends, this group of students have proven their determination and enthusiasm for community development.
“Most of the people on the course are volunteers in their own communities, making a massive difference to the lives of so many. These students will now be more confident in their abilities to lead change locally and now have a network of fellow students that will support each other in the future.”
The course was hosted at the Building Communities Resource Centre in Ballymoney and was funded through the Department for Communities Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime.
