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23 Jan 2026
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23 Jan 2026
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Pictured: students Oluchi Onyinyechi Izima and Abigail Osula with Portlaoise Institute's Keith McClearn and Patricia Creery..
Two Laois nursing students have been awarded a new distinction from Trinity College.
Former Portlaoise Institute students Oluchi Onyinyechi Izima and Abigail Osula have been awarded the newly established Trinity College QQI Distinction Award, which recognises their outstanding academic achievements.
The prestigious award celebrates exceptional performance in QQI modules completed at Portlaoise Institute, prior to entry into third-level education.
Pictured: students Oluchi Onyinyechi Izima and Abigail Osula with Portlaoise Institute's Patricia Creery.
The awards highlight the positive role further education institutions play in preparing students for university success.
Both recipients completed the Pre-University Nursing course at Portlaoise Institute before progressing to Trinity College Dublin, where they are currently completing their Level 8 degree in General Nursing.
The award ceremony took place on Monday, 19 January, in the grand Dining Hall at Front Square, Trinity College Dublin.
The event brought together award recipients, academic staff and guests to celebrate academic excellence and student progression.
Representing Portlaoise Institute at the ceremony were Principal Keith McClearn and Nursing Studies Coordinator Patricia Creery.
“Oluchi and Abigail are a credit to themselves, their families, and to Portlaoise Institute," Mr McClearn told the Leinster Express / Laois Live.
"Their achievement highlights what is possible through commitment, determination and the strong academic foundation provided by further education. We are immensely proud to see them progressing so successfully at Trinity College Dublin," he said.
Oluchi Onyinyechi Izima expressed her gratitude for the support she received during her time at the institute.
“The Pre-University Nursing course at Portlaoise Institute gave me the confidence and skills I need to succeed at university," she said.
"It prepared me for the challenges of studying nursing at degree level. The teachers were incredibly supportive and always encouraged us to aim high. Receiving this award means so much to me," Ms Onyinyechi Izima finished.
Congratulations to the two students!
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