IGNOU's Goa Regional Centre Enrolls 15,000 Learners in Five Years, Showcasing Inclusive Education
Over the past five years, the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) regional centre in Goa has enrolled nearly 15,000 learners, demonstrating a strong commitment to accessible education. Regional director G Shrinivas revealed these figures at the convocation ceremony held on Tuesday at Lok Bhavan in Panaji.
Demographic Breakdown Highlights Inclusivity
The enrollment data shows an inclusive profile: 48% of the learners are women, and 56% are working professionals. This indicates the centre's success in catering to diverse groups, particularly those balancing education with employment.
The regional centre, based in Panaji, serves learners not only across Goa but also in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka and Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, expanding its educational reach beyond state borders.
Convocation Celebrates 1,517 Graduates
At the convocation ceremony, 1,517 learners from 14 schools of studies across 17 disciplines were awarded degrees under the Goa centre. This milestone underscores the academic achievements facilitated by the institution.
Push for Permanent Campus Gains Momentum
Currently operating from a rented facility, the regional centre is seeking a permanent campus. Shrinivas noted that Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had announced in the 2023-24 budget speech that land would be allotted for this purpose.
The director appealed to Goa Governor A G Raju to help expedite the land allotment process, emphasizing the need for a dedicated infrastructure to support growing educational demands.
Governor's Assurance for Distance Learning Development
Governor Raju, who could not attend due to health reasons, had his speech read in absentia. He assured full support from his office to facilitate the establishment of a permanent regional centre.
"I am confident that this announcement will soon translate into reality, and that a full-fledged permanent regional centre of IGNOU will be established in the state," the governor stated. He added that such an institution would enhance academic facilities and serve as a hub for lifelong learning, skill development, and community engagement.
IGNOU Panaji's Educational Offerings and Legacy
Established in 2009, the IGNOU regional centre in Panaji offers an extensive range of programmes: 76 postgraduate programmes, 71 degree programmes, plus numerous diploma and certificate courses.
Shrinivas highlighted that the centre has played a significant role in extending IGNOU's programmes to learners in Goa and adjoining regions, aligning with the university's mandate of providing inclusive and accessible education.
This growth trajectory, supported by government assurances, positions the centre to further its impact on distance learning and professional development in the region.
