NEW DELHI: The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) awarded over 3 lakh degrees, diplomas, and certificates to students across various programs during its 38th convocation. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan served as the chief guest and delivered the convocation address.
In his virtual speech, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan emphasized the transformative changes in India’s education system under NEP 2020, which promotes flexibility, multidisciplinary learning, vocational training, and technology-driven education. He acknowledged IGNOU’s crucial role in implementing these reforms by offering diverse programs tailored for working professionals, international students, jail inmates, and defence personnel. He also highlighted IGNOU’s regional language initiatives, including multilingual MBA courses, which enhance comprehension and accessibility.
The minister praised IGNOU’s commitment to executing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and its efforts to drive a significant shift in India’s educational landscape. He commended the university’s industry-aligned vocational programs and its collaborations with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), ensuring employability through NSQF-approved courses in healthcare and environmental science.
Promoting vocational education and skill development, the minister recognized IGNOU’s proactive approach to equipping students with job-ready skills. He also lauded the university’s integration of cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital learning to expand access to quality education remotely.
Concluding his address, he underscored the importance of continuous capacity building, including teacher training, and encouraged IGNOU to expand digital education initiatives, strengthen global collaborations, and promote lifelong learning. He urged the institution to contribute towards India’s vision of becoming a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.
IGNOU Vice-Chancellor Uma Kanjilal reaffirmed the university’s commitment to its core objectives of access, inclusion, quality, and affordability in higher education. She highlighted IGNOU’s significant contribution to improving the Gross Enrolment Ratio, with an annual intake of approximately 7.5 lakh learners.
Expanding its global reach and infrastructure, IGNOU has actively implemented NEP 2020 provisions, including the Four-Year Undergraduate Program (FYUP), multiple entry and exit options, and skill-based education. Kanjilal also showcased special programs designed for Agniveers of the Indian Defence Forces, with over 5,000 Agniveers currently enrolled.
Further strengthening its international presence, IGNOU now operates in 70 countries, broadening its global impact. As part of its infrastructure expansion, the university inaugurated six new regional centre buildings in February 2024 and integrated additional smart classrooms to enhance digital learning experiences.
