The Vice-Chancellor of the Milton Keynes based Open University, Peter Horrocks, has announced he is stepping down.
Last week Peter Horrocks came under pressure from members of the University and College Union.
They demanded his resignation because of plans to cut staff and courses.
The OU faces a scale of challenge that is unprecedented. The requirement for social justice in education is acute and the demands for new skills are ever present, which means that a great institution like ours is needed more than ever. I know that all members of the University will continue to commit themselves to the changes necessary to live up to these opportunities.
I wish the University and my successor the very best.
Peter Horrocks Credit: ITV Anglia "Peter Horrocks has made an enormous contribution to securing the future of The Open University during his three years at the helm. He has shown real courage and determination in articulating and addressing the challenges we face internally and externally. Peter has recaptured the pioneering spirit of the OU, challenged norms and pushed us to put innovation at the heart of our preparations for the future. He departs with our sincere thanks and warm wishes for the future."
Richard Gillingwater, Pro-Chancellor, Open University After the announcement the University and College Union said the institution now needed someone at the helm who would defend the university and its staff.
"Staff made it quite clear that the vice-chancellor had to go and we are pleased he has finally got that message. The Open University is a fantastic institution and Horrocks's replacement must defend the unique role it plays in our education system and the work of its staff. The university leadership team should now scrap the damaging plans to cut jobs and courses, and work with us to develop a more positive strategy for the future of the institution."
UCU regional official Lydia Richards 