Srinagar, March 5: The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) held its 38th Convocation on Tuesday, with the main event taking place at its headquarters in New Delhi, alongside simultaneous ceremonies at 35 Regional Centres across the country.
In Srinagar, the convocation was hosted at Tagore Hall, providing a platform for learners from Kashmir and Ladakh to celebrate their academic achievements. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan was the Chief Guest at the central convocation in New Delhi. The Srinagar event featured Shantmanu, Additional Chief Secretary of the Higher Education Department, J&K Government, as the Special Guest, while Professor (Dr) Mohammad Mobin, Vice-Chancellor of Cluster University Srinagar, attended as the Guest of Honour. Speaking at the event, Shantmanu underscored the significance of open universities, noting that they offer flexibility and accessibility, particularly for individuals who cannot attend conventional classes.
“IGNOU provides a valuable opportunity for those managing businesses, household responsibilities, or other commitments to continue their education. The university offers a diverse range of short-term courses, diplomas, and certificate programmes that align with professional and personal growth,” he stated. Highlighting IGNOU’s impact in Kashmir, Shantmanu noted that the Srinagar Regional Centre has a high enrolment rate compared to other regions in India. He also acknowledged the lack of a dedicated campus for the centre and assured that the matter would be investigated and addressed.
The event also included an address by Dr A. H. Rizvi, Regional Director, who extended congratulations to the graduates and awardees. He highlighted key initiatives such as collaborations with NIELIT and the Composite Regional Centre Srinagar, the establishment of a placement cell, and industry linkages to enhance career prospects for students. The Srinagar Regional Centre, which began 26 years ago with around 1,000 learners, has now expanded to an enrolment of over 45,000 students in more than 300 programmes. It is also part of the e-VidyaBharti Project, a Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) initiative offering tele-education services to 19 African nations. Additionally, a Swayam Prabha studio has been established at the centre to provide Urdu-language counselling for undergraduate programmes via Channel 13. To improve accessibility for students from remote and rural areas, new examination centres have been set up at Government Degree Colleges in Kreeri, Langate, Uri, Handwara, Qazigund, Dooru, D.H. Pora, and Mattan.
The event concluded with the distribution of Certificates of Honour, Appreciation, and Excellence. The ceremony was attended by former Regional Directors, senior police officials, college principals, coordinators, government representatives, alumni, gold medallists, and members of the media fraternity.
