THE Open University has launched its first ever Open Week to coincide with Adult Learners’ Week.
Taking place in its Belfast headquarters, Open Week will run from June 15-19 and will provide prospective learners with information on courses, qualifications, fees and more.
Welcoming Open Week, the Minister for Employment and Learning, Stephen Farry, highlighted the importance of adult learning to the Northern Ireland economy. He said: “I am delighted to launch this initiative from The Open University to encourage as many people as possible to consider enrolling on a higher education qualification.
“Eighty per cent of the 2020 workforce has already left fulltime education. It is therefore imperative that, in order to meet the skills needs of the future economy, people who are already in work have the opportunity to upskill.
“The Open University’s unique form of part-time, online-based learning can be the perfect vehicle for people to achieve this.
“The Open University continues to play a key part in ensuring people have the skills they need to fulfil their potential, get into work, progress in work and contribute to our economy.”
John D’Arcy, Nation Director of The Open University, emphasised the importance of lifelong learning and how the university helps to facilitate this.
He said: “Obtaining a higher level qualification can open up a whole range of employment opportunities. No one should feel that the chance to study at university has passed them by. The Open University specialises in giving people the opportunity to study towards a higher level qualification in a way that fits around their job and caring commitments.”
In a direct call to potential students, Mr D’Arcy continued: “Studying with the Open University at undergraduate level requires no prior formal qualifications. All you need is the commitment and the desire to find out what you are capable of. If you call into our Belfast Headquarters at 110 Victoria Street during Open Week, or contact us via Twitter on @OUBelfast — our team will be able to guide you on how easy it is to make that first step. It could be a moment that changes your life.”