The OU in Northern Ireland

Reproductive health is still shaped by stigma, silence and inequality. Our free event, as part of @ImagineBelfast, brings together Wee Nuls, Deirdre Nic Ainhire, The Open University, Menstruation Matters, The Rainbow Project and the Women’s Resource and Development Agency for an evening of art, research and discussion. Together, we’ll explore period poverty, menstrual equity, the gender pain gap, trans inclusion and the need for fairer reproductive health care for all. Thursday 26 March, 7.00pm to 8.30pm The Black Box, Belfast Free admission Book tickets or learn more: ow.ly/14nu50YthN2

Saint Patrick’s legacy is rooted across the island of Ireland and recognised around the world. This St Patrick’s Day, explore his life, history and lasting impact in our interactive timeline: ow.ly/ZJFb50YuHen

To mark Neurodiversity Celebration Week, new research from The Open University highlights the challenges many parents face when searching for reliable support for neurodivergent children. New research shows that only 1 in 4 parents feel confident in the information they find, with many feeling overwhelmed by the amount of advice available. To help , the OU has launched a free Supporting Neurodivergent Children hub, offering practical tools, expert guidance and learning resources for families and educators. Explore the free toolkit: ow.ly/YLYe50YuB6P

Mother’s Day is a chance to celebrate the women who shape our lives. For some, that’s a mum. For others, it’s a grandmother, sister, mentor, friend or colleague. The women who encourage us, inspire us and show us what’s possible. Through Mumentum, we celebrate women building brighter futures for themselves and those around them. With flexible learning from The Open University, you can grow your career in a way that fits around your life. This Mother’s Day, we’re celebrating every woman making moves and creating momentum. 💙 Ready to make Mumentum? Learn more: open.ac.uk/courses/choose…

OCN and @OpenUniversity partnering to create learner pathways throughout Northern Ireland. 📍Visit our exhibition stand at the Alliance Conference at Crowne Plaza Belfast today.

Good morning from @allianceparty Conference! Looking forward to meeting delegates to talk about all things @OUBelfast @OpenUniversity Higher Education, Widening Participation, Skills and much more #APNI2026

Reproductive health is still shaped by stigma, silence and inequality. Our free event, as part of @ImagineBelfast, brings together Wee Nuls, Deirdre Nic Ainhire, The Open University, Menstruation Matters, The Rainbow Project and the Women’s Resource and Development Agency for an evening of art, research and discussion. Together, we’ll explore period poverty, menstrual equity, the gender pain gap, trans inclusion and the need for fairer reproductive health care for all. Thursday 26 March, 7.00pm to 8.30pm The Black Box, Belfast Free admission Book tickets or learn more: ow.ly/14nu50YthN2

How can co-design improve research and community wellbeing? Join Prof Christothea Herodotou & Dr Jitka Vseteckova form The Open University for an Open Research Week 2026 workshop: 19 March “Codesign – enabling engagement, including health projects and PEACEPLUS.” Featuring the Peace of Mind project and Take Five to Age Well campaign. Register: ow.ly/MSmW50Yqbtv

What an amazing day it’s been at Croke Park. A big thank you to everyone who made it possible, especially our students whose hard work and dedication has got them to this point. Go out and show the world what an OU student can do. #OUFamily

Some days studying feels exciting. Other days it can feel overwhelming. Many Open University students balance study with work, family life and everything in between. When things feel heavy, you deserve support. At The Open University, our local Student Support Team is here to listen. If you need to talk, you can reach out through this page: ow.ly/nuZe50Ysh4J Support is also available beyond the University. Our partners @AWARENI offer services across Northern Ireland, including support groups and a support email service. You can read more about the partnership and help on offer here: ow.ly/iHcs50Ysh4O You do not have to face things alone. #UniversityMentalHealthDay

Andrew volunteers with Cancer Fund for Children, supporting young people in his community. At 41, he chose to study Psychology with The Open University to deepen the impact he could make. “The flexibility was everything.” Ready to turn your passion into impact? open.ac.uk

Open Research Week 2026 (16–20 March) brings together researchers, technicians, librarians & professional services teams to explore open, transparent and collaborative research. Discover new ideas, discussions and opportunities for collaboration. Find out more & register:ow.ly/EVPy50Yqb1k

OU students in Ireland - your voice matters. Join the online Student Consultation Meeting with The Open University and share your views on: - assessment in an AI world - the future direction of the University - building a stronger OU community in Ireland Thursday 26 March 6.30–7.30pm. Register: ow.ly/tptq50YmZFa

Today we celebrate International Women’s Day. It’s a chance to recognise the achievements of women, past and present, and to keep pushing for a more equal world. If you’d like to learn more, we’ve gathered a range of free resources on women’s history, equality and inspiring women who changed the course of history. 🔗 Explore and start learning: open.edu/openlearn/cour… #IWD2026

This week we attended the Sanctuary Pathways through Further & Higher Education event @QUBelfast As a University of Sanctuary, The Open University is committed to widening access to education for people seeking sanctuary — through scholarships, free learning and flexible study. Education without barriers.

Karen thought a degree was out of reach. With flexible study through The Open University, she returned to learning, rebuilt her confidence, and four years later graduated with a first-class degree in Psychology with Counselling. What once felt impossible became real. Find out more: open.ac.uk

What if you could shape the future at The Open University? Join our Student Consultation Meeting in Belfast. From assessment in an AI world to the University's future direction, your voice matters. Up to £100 travel covered. Limited places. Sign up: ow.ly/Z1wy50YiMnU

Half of all mental health problems begin by age 14, yet 75% of young people aren't getting the support they need. As Eating Disorders Awareness Week begins, explore our @OUFreeLearning course: Introduction to Adolescent Mental Health. Learn how to spot the signs & access support. ow.ly/X1WB50Yk5nH

Careers support at The Open University is personal and closer than you think. You’re not left to figure things out on your own. You can speak to real local careers advisers who understand your goals, your challenges and the local job market. Whether you’re starting out, changing direction or aiming higher, you’ll have someone in your corner. Support is available throughout your studies and for three years after you finish. You don’t have to wait until graduation to think about what’s next. You can start now, with people who are ready to help. Discover the careers support available to you: 👉 ow.ly/ubSc50Yhsbl

After 10 years in community mental health, Noleen Curran from Downpatrick took the step to train as a nurse while working full-time. Her journey proves lifelong dreams don't have an expiry date. Start yours with the Open University: ow.ly/LyHp50Y9X1a