: The Indira Gandhi National Open University is the largest university in the country and among the biggest in the world in terms of the number of students enrolled. According to the latest enrolment figures of the University’s Kochi centre, it is hugely popular among students in Kerala, too.
“More than 10,000 students have enrolled with the Kochi centre of IGNOU for the July session,” said centre director M. Rajesh. The University maintains its popularity despite that large number of institutions of higher education in the State. “The Kochi centre of IGNOU covers seven districts. There has been a steady increase in the number of students enrolling here over the last six sessions,” Mr. Rajesh said.
What attracts some students to the distance education mode offered by the University is its reputation and that it is a UGC approved Central university. Kochi resident Athira Muralidharan recently enrolled for the IGNOU BCA programme. “I just finished my diploma in Computer Engineering from a polytechnic college. But it is always better to have a recognised degree. So I decided to take up the course,” she said. Her younger sister, who has just started at a polytechnic college this year, has also enrolled for the course this year. “That way, she will have the diploma and the BCA degree in three years’ time. She won’t have to waste any time later in getting the degree,” she said.
Students said that while the university’s course content was of a high standard, it was also easily accessible. The learners have the option of studying the course in a style that suits them.
That was why Fabin Jose K.J., a 25-year-old Kochiite, chose to take up M.A. in English Literature with IGNOU. “I read a lot and enjoy studying English literature. I’ve always wanted to do an M.A., but I couldn’t pursue my interest in the subject after I completed my B.A. due to many reasons. So I decided to enrol with IGNOU,” said Fabin, who is self-employed.
The University also recognises its role in bringing education to those who may not have access to it otherwise. Among its students are physically challenged persons and those from disadvantaged sections of society. “We even get many women students from minority groups who may find it difficult to go to regular colleges,” said Mr. Rajesh.
For many others, distance education allows them to follow a passion and improve their resume at the same time. One such person is 56-year-old Madan Mohan, who recently retired from the Health Services. Mr. Mohan is currently enrolled in his seventh distance education course with the University. “I took my first course in 1991. I was teaching in a parallel college back then. But I was being paid less than my colleagues because I had only passed SSLC,” he said. He enrolled for the University’s Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme.
The course can be taken by anyone over 18 years of age who may not have the formal education necessary to enrol for a Bachelor’s Degree. After the BPP, Mr. Mohan went on to do a B.A., a PG Diploma, an M.A. and certificate programmes. He is studying M.A. in Philosophy. “I had a job and the responsibilities of a family while I was studying,” he said. “I’m retired now, but I still take examinations with students younger than me.”
