NAGPUR IGNOU- IGNOU Expands presence in Maharashtra

IGNOU expands presence in Maharashtra 

With a humble beginning from just 10 learning centres, the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), Nagpur Regional Centre has now expanded its operation to 45 locations across 14 districts of Maharashtra in a short span of two years.

Launched in April 2009, the IGNOU covers 11 districts of Vidarbha region and three districts of Nanded, Hingoli and Parbhani in Marathwada region.

Carved out from Pune Regional Centre, the Nagpur centre has been entrusted with the responsibility to provide better access to IGNOU programmes and also to draft programmes suitable to regional needs. About 6000 students have enrolled themselves for the current academic year 2011-12.

Besides degree and diploma, IGNOU is offering PhD programmes in 38 subjects. The PhD methodology includes a rigorous intensive procedure, Regional Director, Dr P. Sivaswaroop, said.

Talking to PTI, he said around 500 faculties of regular college and university IGNOU has activated social study centres in Nagpur and Amravati central jails and is offering degree course studies and MA in Sociology and English.

Dr Sivaswaroop, who holds a Doctorate in Chemistry from Andhra Pradesh, said besides academic and professional courses, IGNOU was conducting vocational skill certification courses for the prisoners to shape up their future after their release from the jail.

Four such certificate courses in Nagpur Central Prison including carpentry, welding, bakery and dress making have been introduced.

As many as 70 prisoners (including female inmates) lodged with jail here are taking up these courses. These prisoners have been offered free education for their studies in IGNOU where free study material is provided apart from examination, fees and prospectus cost.

Dr Sivaswaroop said IGNOU was offering courses in agriculture and veterinary sciences and also computers besides journalism.