Irish Aid recognises that many of the achievements in development education are the result of a partnership approach between government departments and non-governmental organisations.

Statutory:
The Department of Education and Science (DES), is charged with overall responsibility for education policy. We are committed to continuing and deepening the level of engagement with DES towards the incorporation of a development or global perspective in education policy. In addition, we continue to cooperate and work closely with the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA).

Other important partners within the formal education system include the various support services, such as the Inspectorate, Second Level Support Service, In-Career Development Unit and individual subject and programme support services, Education Centres, curriculum development units, third level colleges, including colleges of education and institutions of further education.

Voluntary and Community:
Organisations in the voluntary and community sector, in particular, are important partners for DCI. They play a critical role in the promotion and delivery of development education. These include the NGDOs, missionary and religious organisations, solidarity or single-issue groups, specialist development education organisations, youth organisations, one world centres, trade unions and community development organisations.