The International Development Minister, Lynne Featherstone, visited the OU to learn about how the UKaid project, OU programmes and technology pioneered here are helping communities around the world access education and learn English.
She was shown how technology developed and the key part mobile devices play for example in the English in Action (EIA), teaching and learning programme which recently scooped a major British Council innovation prize.
Once she had tried the technology for herself, the Minister was able to see how low-cost mobile phones are pre-loaded with teaching and learning materials before being distributed across Bangladesh.
Ms Featherstone said: “The Open University is a highly respected British institution and I was keen to see for myself the exciting ways they are helping developing countries widen their education opportunities.
“The technology that is being pioneered by the Open University means people can learn valuable new skills helping them to pull themselves out of poverty and contribute to their national economy.”
Director of International Development, Daniel Nti, said: “The Open University has built up a wealth of expertise in the fields of distance and flexible learning since it was founded which, coupled with an enviable academic reputation, leaves us well placed to make a real difference to millions of people in developing countries across the globe.
“We welcome the Government’s commitment to international development and it was a pleasure to be able to show the minister how our work is helping people where it’s needed most.”
8 July 2013
