Infrastructure Minister has highlighted the
importance of a new collaboration with The Open University which
is providing an online learning platform for staff.
The Open University (OU) Learning Hub has been designed to
support lifelong learning and professional development across
DfI.
The Hub went live on the 16 September
2025 and has already attracted more than 1,500
visits. The partnership with the OU, falls under a key strand of
the Department's People Strategy which is committed to the
professional development of staff.
Commenting on the partnership, Minister Kimmins
said: “This learning hub provides an excellent
opportunity for personal and professional growth for DfI
staff that reinforces our Department's commitment to
lifelong learning. The strength of DfI lies in the commitment of
its people across the Department in their delivering of essential
public services.”
John D'Arcy, Nation Director, The Open University in Northern
Ireland said: "We are delighted to support the ongoing
professional and personal growth of the Department's staff
through this online learning hub. The provision of free courses
and resources through our OpenLearn platform provides a fantastic
introduction to the upskilling and reskilling opportunities
available through online learning. This innovative hub will
play a complementary role in developing departmental skills
aligned with strategic priorities such as Essential Skills,
Engineering, AI, Leadership, and Well-being."
The DfI Open University Hub is available now via the DfI Staff
Zone and can be viewed here: www.open.edu/openlearn/deptinfra
