Srinagar, 20 November (HS): Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) celebrated its 38th Foundation Day.

The main function was held at IGNOU main campus in New Delhi which was broadcast live on several channels, like, Swayam Prabha, Gyan Vani, Gyan Dhara and Facebook.

Keeping in view the importance of the event and to celebrate the existence of this prestigious institution in UT of J&K and Ladakh, IGNOU Regional Centre Srinagar also celebrated this event in Srinagar.

The function started with the screening of a short film regarding the activities conducted by the IGNOU RC Srinagar from past one year.

Dr Shahnawaz Ahmad Dar, Regional Director IGNOU RC Srinagar, in his address, spoke about the emergence of the IGNOU in the region from a centre confined to few areas of the region to a centre now practically operating from every nook and corner of the UT of Kashmir and Ladakh. He said that the number of students enrolled under the centre has crossed 50 thousand mark.

He gave a detailed presentation of the various initiatives and activities being conducted by the centre from past one year. He also spoke about the various national and international projects being operated from the centre, like, e-vidyabharti, Swayam Prabha, Nodal RC for several programmes, etc. He said that Learners from 19 African countries are enrolled with the centre for several programmes being offered by IGNOU. He also talked about the SAATHE Mitra project which is going to be started under the centre for the guidance of students pursuving various competitive examinations, like NEET, JEE, etc.

The chief guest on the event was Dean Academic Affairs- Central University of Kashmir- Prof Shahid Rasool. He delivered the Foundation Day Lecture on the occasion and spoke about the importance of distance education and online learning in the present times keeping in view the advancement in technology and the competition in business. He also praised the IGNOU for its role in the Human Resource Development of the region.

The event was also attended by the Principal GCW- Prof Ruhi Jan Kant, Dr Mudasir ARD, Coordinator of city based LSC/s, Alumni of IGNOU, staff members of IGNOU RC Srinagar and LSC 30039 and media.

Hindusthan Samachar/ Krishan/Manoj