OU is a "genius"

18:00 26th June 2009

Peter Mandelson has described the Open University (OU) as a "genius for our times".

The distance-learning provider is celebrating its 40th-birthday this year and the secretary of state for business, innovation and skills has applauded it in the Guardian for the good work it has achieved.

Over two million people have now studied topics such as IT courses through the OU since its creation in 1969.

Mr Mandelson said: "Powered by the internet and online learning, it is an idea that has come so completely of age that it is easy to forget the trail the OU blazed."

To celebrate and recognise the work the university does, prime minister Gordon Brown has promised the institution £12 million to develop as a national resource, reports the Guardian.

With this money, the learning centre - which offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses - will collaborate with other UK organisations to improve and develop distance learning.