The official opening of UCD O’Connor Centre for Learning in March 2026 marked a significant milestone in the University’s ambitious campus development plans.

The Centre is named for UCD alumnus Dr Eddie O’Connor, who gave a generous philanthropic donation in support of the project prior to his death. It is a fitting legacy for a passionate advocate for sustainability who firmly believed in the transformative power of education, and was a dedicated supporter of education at UCD throughout his life.

The opening ceremony was attended by members of the O’Connor family, Minister James Lawless, and UCD President Orla Feely, who reflected on Dr O’Connor’s enduring connection to UCD and his lasting impact.

The state-of-the-art O’Connor Centre for Learning is designed to facilitate active learning, and incorporates the kinds of formal and informal spaces that students need to acquire and practise the wide range of skills that they will need to thrive in the 21st century.

The technology-enabled learning environment includes a 250-seat lecture theatre, adaptable teaching rooms, and the largest active collaborative learning space in Ireland – an area that can comfortably accommodate hundreds of students.

It will enrich the learning experience of students for generations to come.