Ulster Unionist DEL Committee Chair, Robin Swann MLA, has called on people to look at the Open University as a way of gaining a qualification.
The North Antrim Assembly Member made his appeal after supporting an Open University event in Stormont
“As a graduate of the Open University myself, I encourage people to look at the Open University as a method of gaining a first class educational qualification. The Open University offers a huge range of courses that people can study from home.
“At present, over one third of people who are economically inactive do not have any formal qualifications, so the Open University offers a great chance to get a degree and help find meaningful employment.
“With the flexibility of doing the course from home and in your own time, the Open University courses are particularly attractive to those people who do not have the time to attend a university on a regular schedule, those who are currently working, people living in rural areas, or those who stay at home to look after family members.
“The cost of the courses can also be offset by financial assistance through the Open University so there is no reason that people cannot apply for help with the cost of the course.
“I also encourage people to contact the Open University on its website www.open.ac.uk/study/ and see what is on offer. For financial assistance information go to www.open.ac.uk/financialsupport and click on the eligibility checker.”