A student and a lecturer from Southern Regional College have been shortlisted for the 2026 Open College Network Northern Ireland (OCN NI) Learning Endeavour Awards.

Emilis Meinertas is nominated in the Further Education Learner of the Year category, while Mairead Fitzpatrick is nominated for Inspiring Tutor of the Year. They are among six candidates in each category.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony at Titanic Belfast on Tuesday 23 June.

Mr Meinertas is studying for a Hospitality and Catering Level 2 Certificate and a Social Media Level 1 Award at the college’s Newry campus. He travels from across the border each day, taking two buses and maintaining full attendance.

Ms Fitzpatrick has taught at the college for 36 years, working across the Newry and Portadown campuses. She focuses on supporting students with special educational needs. In 2021 she helped develop a one-year Catering Level 1 programme for SEN students in partnership with Clanrye Group. Many students from the programme have progressed to Level 2 studies.

Michelle Moore, curriculum area manager for hospitality and tourism, said the department was delighted with the shortlistings. She noted Ms Fitzpatrick’s long-standing dedication and contribution to SEN provision, and described Mr Meinertas as a hardworking and determined student.