Age-friendly AI training programme launches in Cavan
The Age-Friendly AI training programme, Ireland’s National Artificial Intelligence Literacy Initiative for Older Adults, was officially launched at Johnston Central Library in the Farnham Centre in Cavan. The programme is delivered by researchers from Technological University Dublin and the Adapt Research Ireland Centre. Funded by Research Ireland, the initiative will roll out in public libraries across Ireland throughout 2026 in partnership with Libraries Ireland, managed by the Local Government Management Agency.
Age-Friendly AI was developed in partnership with older adults and leading ageing-focused organisations across Ireland. This training programme follows a year-long public dialogue exploring their hopes, concerns and expectations regarding artificial intelligence (AI) and its role in everyday life. Accompanying resources and training materials for librarians and other educators will support lifelong learning in their communities.
Stuart Hamilton, Head of Libraries Development for the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) said: “Libraries are trusted, welcoming spaces at the heart of every community and play a vital role in ensuring learning is inclusive and accessible as society evolves. Already this year, we have seen Age Friendly AI engagements in libraries across several counties, and over the rest of 2026, libraries across Ireland will host a national rollout of the programme. Ultimately, this is about ensuring older people are part of the conversation on AI, giving them the time, support and confidence to engage at their own pace.”
Dr Emma Clarke from Adapt said: “Ongoing dialogue, enabled by the #DiscussAI national conversation on artificial intelligence, is at the very heart of this programme. By listening to older people from the outset, we ensure that the individuals this training aims to reach are actively involved at every stage of the process. This collaborative approach ensures that the programme is relevant and resonates with the real-life experiences and needs of older adults across Ireland.”
Paula Kelly, Age-Friendly AI lead at TU Dublin, added: “The Age-Friendly AI initiative isn’t just about teaching AI technology; it’s about making sure older adults aren’t left behind as AI becomes part of our everyday products and services, from healthcare to banking to staying in touch with family.”
Following the formal launch, attendees tried out interactive demonstrations, including Spirit of Radio, a vintage radio with a modern AI twist; and an ‘Art or AI’ exhibit that challenged participants to distinguish between human-created and AI-generated artwork; and a voice-activated smart lamp.
The Age-Friendly AI training programme will continue to roll out in libraries across Ireland throughout 2026, providing accessible, community-based opportunities for older adults to learn about and experiment with artificial intelligence technologies.
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