Adult learner from Offaly receives literacy award

Annabel Mahon, from Offaly, was among 31 adult learners to receive a literacy award at the Richmond Education & Event Centre, Dublin recently.

All of the award winners were joined by their tutors, families, and friends at a ceremony organised by the National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA).

The ceremony celebrated the achievements of the learners who improved their literacy, numeracy or digital literacy skills using the 'Learn with NALA' eLearning website.

The 'Learn with NALA' eLearning website has 44 free online courses for adults in subjects including reading, writing, maths, computers and communications.

At the event, learners received NALA certificates and national Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) certificates for their work.

Between January and June in 2026, 774 learners achieved 1,525 QQI awards on Learn with NALA.

The guest speaker at the ceremony was PJ Gallagher, the renowned Irish comedian, broadcaster, podcaster, and TV personality.

Speaking at the awards, Gallagher said: “It’s such a positive day for the learners. I hope these awards will inspire them and other potential learners to continue their education and to have the courage to consider other opportunities. This wonderful day shows how there are lots of routes into education and a variety of paths to gain awards, certificates and educational experience. No matter where you are on your learning journey, you all have something unique to offer. I commend the learners for taking the step that led them here today.”

For information on Learn with NALA visit www.learnwithnala.ie