Pokhriyal lauds IGNOU for launching large number of new relevant academic programmes

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ on February 17, 2020, addressed the 33rd Convocation of Indira Gandhi National Open University in New Delhi. The university conferred more than 2,00,000 degrees, diplomas, and certificates at the convocation to the successful students in their respective programmes. Gold medals were also awarded to over 50 meritorious students at the convocation.

In his convocation address, Pokhriyal while congratulating the students who attained distinctions and Gold medals said that the achievements earned by them was due to the blessings of their teachers, and parents, who guided them to attain such noteworthy distinctions. He also applauded IGNOU for having unprecedented expertise in developing and launching academic programmes that are needed in the present context and very useful for learning communities. He also made a mention of the skill oriented curriculum weaved around a conducive environment for learners by the university.

Stressing on the need to develop courses in Indian languages for wider reach, Pokhriyal pleaded for further development of Hindi and Sanskrit in the Universities as recognition of Hindi as the National Language alone is not enough. He lauded the IGNOU for launching large number of new academic programmes covering wide range of disciplines, which are relevant in current times.

The Union HRD Minister also lauded the role played by IGNOU in increasing the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER), which cannot be achieved alone by the conventional system of education. He urged the university to introduce programmes which are employment-centric and help in employment generation, according to a PIB release.

Highlighting the growth of fresh students in July, 2019 and on-going January, 2020 admissions cycles,  Vice-Chancellor of the University Prof. Nageshwar Rao said that the volume of admission clearly speaks about the contribution of IGNOU in improving GER in higher education in tune with Govt. of India’s target to achieve 30% GER in higher education.

Prof Rao  informed that the university has introduced 26 new academic programmes including three graduate degree (general), nine graduate honours programmes under CBCS and three Online programmes in last two admission cycles to meet diversified needs in the disciplines of health sciences, vocational areas, tourism, environment change, yoga, development study etc.

The convocation function was conducted simultaneously at 39 Regional canters of the university across the country while the main function was held at the University headquarters.