Open University named Vice Chair of Universities Ireland

Michael Bower, Principal and Nation Director for The Open University in Ireland, has been appointed Vice Chair of Universities Ireland. 

The appointment reflects The Open University’s longstanding contribution to higher education across the island of Ireland, where it has supported more than 90,000 students since the University was founded in 1969. It also reinforces the University’s commitment to partnership, widening participation and cross-border collaboration within the higher education sector.

Michael succeeds John D’Arcy in the role, continuing The Open University’s representation within Universities Ireland and its contribution to all-island dialogue on the future of higher education. The Vice Chair and Chair positions rotate annually among member institutions.

Universities Ireland represents the collective voice of universities across the island, fostering collaboration, informing policy, and promoting the value of higher education in driving economic and social development. As Vice Chair, Michael will help support the organisation’s strategic direction, strengthen partnerships across the sector, and contribute to discussions shaping the future of higher education and research across Ireland.

Michael brings extensive leadership experience to the position, alongside a strong commitment to widening participation and lifelong learning. Under his leadership, The Open University has continued to expand access to flexible, online tutor-supported learning, enabling people from all backgrounds to gain higher education qualifications regardless of location, prior attainment, or life circumstances.

Speaking about his appointment, Michael said:
“I am delighted to take on the role of Vice Chair of Universities Ireland at such a crucial point for the higher education sector. Collaboration across institutions has never been more important as we work together to address evolving skills needs, technological change, and growing demand for more inclusive and flexible learning pathways, alongside stronger research and innovation. I look forward to working with colleagues across the island to support a higher education system that creates opportunity for everyone with the ambition to achieve a higher-level qualification.”

The Open University has a long-standing presence across the island of Ireland, working in partnership with government, industry, and communities to address skills gaps, support economic growth and promote social mobility through education. As a founding member of the Alliance for Lifelong Learning, the University continues to champion accessible education and flexible learning pathways within both the tertiary education sector and wider public policy discussions across Ireland and Northern Ireland.

The University’s model of flexible, part-time study continues to create opportunities for people balancing work, family and other commitments, helping learners develop skills, confidence and career progression at every stage of life.

Michael’s appointment further strengthens The Open University’s voice within the higher education landscape and reinforces its contribution to shaping a more inclusive, collaborative, and future-focused system across the island of Ireland.