CHARLESTON, W.Va. (Hinton News) – Governor Patrick Morrisey signed House Bill 4087, establishing the West Virginia–Ireland Education Alliance to expand academic partnerships and strengthen ties between West Virginia and Ireland.
“This legislation strengthens an already important relationship between West Virginia and Ireland by opening new doors for our students, educators, and institutions,” said Governor Morrisey. “Expanding these partnerships will help create new opportunities for learning, workforce development, and cultural exchange that will benefit our state for years to come.”
The new alliance builds on the relationship formalized in 2023 through the West Virginia–Ireland Trade Commission by adding a dedicated focus on education. The initiative creates new opportunities for collaboration between West Virginia and Irish colleges and universities through student and faculty exchanges and joint academic programs.
The Higher Education Policy Commission will select one four-year institution and one two-year institution in West Virginia to partner with higher education institutions in Ireland. These partnerships will support exchange programs and collaborative educational initiatives and may be eligible for a grant of up to $50,000, subject to appropriation by the Legislature.
The West Virginia–Ireland Education Alliance is designed to strengthen academic, cultural, and workforce connections between the two regions, creating opportunities for shared learning and international engagement.
Governor Morrisey signed the bill in green ink in recognition of St. Patrick’s Day and to celebrate West Virginia’s deep Irish heritage, as well as the state’s growing economic and educational relationship with Ireland.
