Northern Ireland

Power of part-time higher education celebrated

Committee chairman Robin Swann said the OU was a vital component of the higher education system
Committee chairman Robin Swann said the OU was a vital component of the higher education system Committee chairman Robin Swann said the OU was a vital component of the higher education system

The power of part-time higher education in Northern Ireland has been celebrated at a special Stormont reception.

Assembly members, ministers and civil servants attended The Open University's Winter Reception at Parliament Buildings.

The event, which was sponsored by the assembly's Committee for Employment and Learning, demonstrated that part-time higher education, as provided by the OU, plays a huge part in helping individuals achieve their potential.

Three OU students told their stories at the event, about how OU study helped them to develop their skills and confidence.

Graeme Millar, who completed an MBA with the OU, is now developing a whiskey distillery, aiming to make it a global business.

Christine McMahon juggled her studies around work and caring for her father and her BA (Hons) Open Degree in health and social care helped her achieve more in her role caring for elderly patients.

Andrea Craig, who was a health care assistant when she started studying with the OU, progressed through a Diploma in Higher Education in Mental Health Nursing to become Deputy Ward Sister.

"Part-time study has changed every aspect of my life," she said.

Committee chairman Robin Swann said the OU was a vital component of the higher education system, providing flexible, online and distance learning opportunities.

"Part-time study is often the only way many individuals can access higher education - for example those juggling work and family commitments - and we need to recognise and acknowledge the work of the OU in supporting and motivating its students to achieve their full potential for the benefit of Northern Ireland’s society and economy," he said.

John D'Arcy, Director of The Open University in Northern Ireland, added: "The Open University has around 4,000 students across Northern Ireland, combining work, caring responsibilities and all the other aspects of their busy lives with their studies. Gaining recognition from our MLAs, Ministers, MPs and civil servants as the largest provider of part-time higher education, and as a key contributor to the Northern Ireland economy, is a great achievement for us."