During the 38th Convocation of the IGNOU Jammu Regional Centre on Wednesday, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh praised the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 for its focus on integrating skills within the educational framework and assured that the ‘Open University Culture’ will greatly benefit from the initiatives outlined in NEP 2020.

Speaking virtually at the convocation, Dr. Singh emphasized IGNOU’s (Indira Gandhi National Open University) pivotal role in reshaping the educational landscape, especially for individuals who face socio-economic barriers to accessing traditional educational institutions.

He underscored how NEP 2020’s forward-thinking aspects, including flexible entry and exit points, choice-based credit systems, and a variety of learning opportunities, correspond with the goals of open universities like IGNOU.

Dr. Singh elaborated on the significance of NEP 2020 in allowing students to tailor their educational experiences, whether through subject changes or combinations based on personal interests and evolving job market demands—an approach already embraced by IGNOU.

The Union Minister commended IGNOU’s impressive growth since its establishment in 1985, noting that it has become the largest university in the world by enrollment and has received an A++ accreditation.

Highlighting key features of IGNOU’s offerings, such as flexible entry and exit options, modular design, and use of multimedia for learning, Dr. Singh remarked that these innovations cater to the diverse needs of students, allowing them to learn at their own pace and convenience.

“Many of these elements—like flexible degrees, choice-based credits, and the possibility to alter or combine subjects—are integral to NEP 2020, positioning IGNOU as a true trailblazer in the educational sector,” added Dr. Singh.

The Minister of Science and Technology further acknowledged IGNOU’s global outreach, referencing its 25 overseas study centers in 15 countries and its strong international presence. He also noted its collaboration with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and the Central Hindi Directorate (CHD), which provides a three-month online Basic Hindi Awareness program to foreign nationals in nine countries.

Moreover, he highlighted that through the e-VidyaBharati and e-AarogyaBharati (e-VBAB) Network Project, IGNOU offers 45 online programs across 19 African nations.

Dr. Singh credited Prime Minister Modi’s leadership for facilitating a strategic partnership between IGNOU and the Open University of Kenya (OUK), thus enriching the global educational ecosystem.

In his remarks, Dr. Singh lauded government initiatives like the Mudra Yojana and PM Vishwakarma Yojana, which empower youth by offering self-employment and livelihood opportunities. He detailed how the Mudra Yojana provides skilled youth with collateral-free loans up to Rs 20 lakh to launch their businesses, while the PM Vishwakarma Yojana assists traditional artisans with advanced tools and training stipends, alleviating financial stress on their families.

He also touched upon the significance of skill development, particularly emphasizing specialized bachelor’s degree programs tailored for service in the defense forces.

Acknowledging the role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in contemporary education, Dr. Singh commended IGNOU’s initiatives in technological integration. He specifically highlighted IGNOU’s six SWAYAM PRABHA channels that grant students access to quality educational content and resources online.

He expressed his satisfaction regarding the newly inaugurated state-of-the-art IGNOU campus in Jammu, calling it a major milestone for the region and a long-awaited dream since the center’s establishment in 1998. He described this new campus as a gift from Prime Minister Modi to the youth and aspiring learners in Jammu.

Dr. Singh further noted that nearly 6 lakh students have enrolled at the Jammu Regional Centre, with over 2 lakh joining since 2020.

In conclusion, Dr. Singh encouraged the youth to actively participate in realizing Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) by 2047, marking the 100th anniversary of India’s independence. “Today’s graduates are fortunate to witness India’s transformational journey, and I urge them to become part of this monumental quest for a brighter future for our nation,” he concluded.