Munster Technological University Cork is to receive 3.2 million euro in funding to meet the growing demand for apprenticeships.
18 apprenticeship blocks will be brought to MTU Cork including in Pipefitting, Plumbing, Electrical and Metal Fabrication.
Meanwhile, 70 per cent of employers say a degree is no longer essential.
A new report from recruitment firm Hays Ireland shows a significant move towards skills-based hiring, rather than a preference for a third-level qualification.
Managing Director at Hays Ireland, Maureen Lynch says employers' thought patterns have changed:
"Employers are beginning to think differently around that they're hiring, who they're hiring, where they can hire from are certain qualifications. In some instances degrees will be essential because you're a doctor, you're a nurse, you're an engineer - going to have to have a certain skill set, but for others, organisations are beginning to think 'Actually, is that essential'? And what do we actually need and who can we upskill within the organisation?"
