Usually students only graduate once but Aileen Foran of RAP decided that the women who had been working so hard for a year and a half deserved more. The women had already graduated in UCD but a further celebration was organised in Clanna Gael Hall on 13th June complete with caps and gowns.

Local women recently completed an Outreach programme on Women’s Studies in UCD. This programme which was initiated by Ringsend Action Project (RAP) also received support from the Dublin Docklands Development Authority and Dublin Port.

Aileen of RAP says that one of the reasons for developing this course was to bring women from both sides of the Liffey together to share their experiences. The participants were all from the docklands area and aged between 20 and 60.

Ann Kemble from Sandymount was one of the students who participated. As well as attending lectures on Tuesday mornings students had to research and write essays. “It was hard going at the beginning especially since I had not done any school work for 35 years.”

Nevertheless, Ann persevered and was one of 11 who graduated earlier this year. The modules included psychology, women in the media and history and Ann found that learning about the Suffragettes and the women’s movement as it developed over the years was fascinating. “All the things these women fought for allow us to have the rights we have today and it was really important to learn about that,” Ann said.

Ann paid a tribute to Aileen of RAP for her enthusiasm and support: “She is a jewel.” If Aileen has her way it won’t stop here as she is hoping to facilitate a Diploma course so that the graduates can continue their studies.