Mapping the Presence of Indira Gandhi National Open University in the Northeast Region of India

Abstract

The North East Region of the country is unique due to its socio-cultural features, geopolitical factors, and abundant untapped natural resources.  However, despite being endowed with such uniqueness, the region remains underdeveloped, backward and alienated from the mainland. Since its inception, Indira Gandhi National Open University registered its presence in the North East Region with the establishment of a Regional Centre in Shillong (Meghalaya) in 1988, Ever since, IGNOU strives to foster educational development of the region through its academic offerings.  As on date nine Regional Centres have been established in the eight states of the NER, catering to the educational needs and aspirations of the deprived segments of the population. Learner support is provided through a network of around 200 active learner support centers under the nine Regional Centres. The paper presents an overview of IGNOU’s interventions to extend its outreach in the NER, beginning with the North-East Project to the current activities through the dedicated unit, Educational Development of North East Region Unit, under Regional Services Division of the University. The paper also discusses the policy measures adopted and implemented to further strengthen the efforts for expansion of higher education as per mandate of IGNOU and Government of India. The prospects, possibilities through the use ICTs and digitalization initiatives for enhancing outreach in the region are also discussed.