Edu policy strengthening open varsities: Minister

Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Wednesday hailed the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 for its progressive approach in reshaping the education system, particularly its role in strengthening open universities. Speaking at the 38th Convocation of IGNOU Jammu Regional Centre in an online address, he emphasised that NEP would significantly boost the ‘open university culture’ by accommodating diverse aptitudes and learning needs.

He highlighted the crucial role played by Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) in revolutionising education, particularly for students who, due to socio-economic constraints, cannot access formal educational institutions. He pointed out that NEP 2020 introduces features such as flexible entry and exit options, choice-based credit systems and interdisciplinary learning, all of which align seamlessly with IGNOU’s existing structure.

The minister elaborated on how NEP empowers students to personalise their educational journey, allowing them to change subjects or combine disciplines based on personal interests and evolving job market demands. This, he noted, is a model that IGNOU has successfully implemented for years.

Praising IGNOU’s remarkable journey since its establishment in 1985, he lauded the university for becoming the largest in the world in terms of student enrolment and for earning the prestigious NAAC A accreditation. He underscored the institution’s innovative educational strategies, including flexible degree programmes, modular course structures and multimedia-based learning, which cater to students from diverse backgrounds and enable them to learn at their own pace.

He further commended IGNOU’s integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into its learning framework, acknowledging its pivotal role in modern education. He noted that many of IGNOU’s pioneering practices, such as digital learning platforms and flexible credit systems, have now been incorporated into NEP, making the university a forerunner in India’s evolving educational landscape.

With the implementation of NEP, he expressed optimism that India’s education system would become more inclusive, adaptable and future-ready, providing students with unprecedented opportunities for academic and professional growth.