The Indira Gandhi National Open University (Ignou) Goa regional centre is introducing several new programmes for the upcoming admission session, including an MSc in artificial intelligence and machine learning, and a post-graduate diploma in climate change. This move comes as the new academic season begins, adapting to changing educational requirements.
New Programmes and Flexibility
G Shrinivas, director of the Goa regional centre, stated that Ignou, the only open university established by an Act of Parliament, has programmes recognised across India and internationally. The university conducts two admission sessions annually, in January and July, with the July session now open.
Ignou programmes are preferred for their flexibility, allowing students to pursue higher education while joining the workforce, Shrinivas added. Across Goa, 5,000 to 6,000 new students register for Ignou programmes each year during the two sessions.
Admission Details and New Courses
Admissions for the July session will remain open until July 15. Shrinivas highlighted several new career-oriented programmes: an MBA in agribusiness management, a BSc in fabric and apparel design, an MA in human values and ethics, a certificate in criminal justice and social work, an MSc in climate change, and a PG diploma in environmental science.
Ignou has study centres that offer weekend counselling for academic programmes and admission assistance. These centres also collect assignments and allow students to conduct practicals. Study centres are located at Dhempe College in Miramar, GVM College of Education in Ponda, Shree Damodar College in Margao, Sant Sohirobanath Ambiye College in Pernem, Fr Agnel College in Pilarm, and a centre for home science programmes at the Govt Home Science College in Campal, along with a new centre in Quepem. Additionally, there is a study centre at Colvale Jail for inmates.
Learning Support and Duration
The university provides printed and digital study material, online academic support, multimedia resources, and a nationwide network of learner support centres. Students must apply through the Ignou Samarth Admission Portal. Learners receive additional time compared to regular universities to complete their courses.
Ignou offers not only graduate and postgraduate programmes but also certificate, diploma, and postgraduate diploma programmes. These help students upgrade their skills while continuing full-time employment or other commitments.
