Waterford student speaks on 'exciting and inspiring' Coillte scholarship

With CAO applications now open, Coillte has announced the launch of its 2025 Forestry Scholarship Programme.

Building on the success of its inaugural programme, which saw scholarships being awarded to three students, this opportunity provides substantial financial and career support for students pursuing a full-time third level forestry programme, at University College Dublin or Waterford's South East Technological University (SETU). 

Offering up to €20,000 per recipient across their degree, alongside paid summer placements and career opportunities with Coillte, the scholarship was created to address the growing need for skilled professionals to support Ireland’s environmental and economic sustainability.

The forestry sector is recognised as a key driver of Ireland’s climate action objectives, requiring more than 1,700 skilled professionals by 2030 to meet the ambitions of Ireland’s Forest Strategy. 

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Among the inaugural scholars are Alex Power from Co Waterford, Áine O'Dwyer from Donegal, and Mia Sibbald from Kildare, who are now in their first semester at SETU and already benefiting from the programme.  

Speaking about the scholarship’s impact, inaugural scholar Waterford's Alex Power said, “Receiving the Coillte scholarship has opened doors for me. It’s not just the financial support—it’s being part of a sector that plays such an important role in tackling climate change and supporting rural communities. My first few weeks at SETU have been exciting and inspiring, as we learn about sustainable forest management and how forestry can help build a greener future.” 

Launching the 2025 Coillte Forestry Scholarship programme was Mark Carlin, Managing Director of Coillte Forest, who said, “Forestry is essential to Ireland’s environmental and economic future, offering diverse careers in a wide variety of areas. With CAO applications now open, we encourage students to consider forestry as a meaningful career that contributes to a greener, more self-sufficient Ireland.” 

Applications for the 2025 Coillte Forestry Scholarship Programme are now open and more information can be found online here. 

The closing date for applications is Friday, May 2, 2025.