The programme is supported by a significant institutional investment of €2.3 million by RCSI in robotic surgical education. This includes the purchase of three robotic platforms, the refurbishment of a dedicated robotic training suite within the National Surgical and Clinical Skills Centre on the St Stephen’s Green campus, and the appointment of a specialist robotics educator to support delivery of the programme.

The curriculum has been designed as a vendor-agnostic, multi-platform training pathway to ensure that trainees develop transferable skills applicable across current and future robotic systems. Training will combine console simulation, model-based practice, and structured hands-on teaching, together with dedicated sessions on human factors, communication, teamwork, and emergency management in the robotic operating environment.

Since the launch in February, work has been ongoing to develop the detailed structure of the curriculum, including the design of individual training modules, simulation exercises, and assessment processes. The programme is scheduled to commence in September, when the first cohort of trainees will undertake the initial phase of training.

In addition to the core curriculum for trainees, RCSI is developing advanced training days for higher specialist trainees, multi-platform exposure courses, and a series of standalone robotic skills courses that will allow wider access to structured robotic training within Ireland. These developments are supported by the new dedicated robotic training facility, which has been designed to provide a high-fidelity, immersive learning environment.

The curriculum forms a key part of the wider National Governance Framework for Robotic Surgery published by RCSI, and aims to ensure that the continued expansion of robotic surgery across Irish hospitals is supported by consistent national standards in safety, training, and clinical practice.

There has already been significant interest in the programme from international centres, and discussions are ongoing regarding future academic collaborations and training partnerships.

The Royal College of Surgeons Ireland will provide further updates as the programme progresses towards its first intake in September.