Journal of Education & Social Policy

RECENT RUMBLINGS IN IGNOU: A PERSPECTIVE
Dr. Satya Narayan Misra, Dr. Monalisa Bal

Abstract
IGNOU and ICT have been powerful programs to supplement traditional methods of teaching through colleges and universities to bolster access to higher education. The IGNOU programs of late are being substantially curtailed causing dismay to discerning observers. The paper analyses the genesis and impact of programs under IGNOU and Open & Distance Learning (ODL) in terms of access, enrolment and quality and draws upon experience of other countries. It argues that through better management, more effective use of technology, more responsive regulatory mechanism and skilled based training to students in remote areas, IGNOU can be a powerful cost effective knowledge dissemination program. With India’s Global Competitive Index (GCI) dipping substantially, there is a need for bolstering the outreach and quality of programs under IGNOU instead of abdicating them in a knee jerk manner. India needs to improve its skill efficiency and foster it through greater use of ICT.

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