Policy and public affairs

We are committed to actively shaping higher education policy to reflect the unique needs of part-time learners in Northern Ireland.

Our goal is to make education accessible and flexible, empowering individuals to pursue lifelong learning without compromising their personal or professional commitments.

To achieve this, we collaborate closely with the elected representatives and government officials, including the Committee for the Economy and related All-Party Groups.

Explore our recent engagement and advocacy efforts below.

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The Open University's Manifesto

The Open University’s manifesto ‘The Future is Flexible’ is our vision for the 2024-27 Northern Ireland Assembly and the importance of lifelong learning.

All-Party Group on Skills

See how we're working to build a skilled future for Northern Ireland.

Matrix panel member

In January 2020, The Open University was welcomed onto the Matrix panel.

Connected Programme

In 2018, we joined the Connected programme in collaboration with the Department for Economy, Queen’s University Belfast, Ulster University and the six Further Education Colleges.

a picture of hands around a piece of paper on a desk as people discuss it

We respond to public consultations to ensure The Open University and the needs of its students are represented in policy-making. We also give evidence to Committees on various issues relating to the work of the OU in Northern Ireland.

Knowledge Exchange Seminar Series

We are represented alongside Queen's University Belfast and Ulster University on the Assembly's Knowledge Exchange Seminar Series, presenting research to Members in order to formulate evidence-based policy-making.