Distance learning, online degrees must be treated on par with regular courses: India’s UGC

Agencies | New Delhi

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

India’s University Grants Commission (UGC) in a recent notification has made it clear that the degrees or diplomas awarded via online modes or by Open and Distance Learning (ODL) institutions are to be treated equally as those by regular institutions. The commission highlighted the Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes Regulations 2020 which specifies, “Equivalence of qualification acquired through Conventional or Open and Distance Learning and online modes.

Under this ordinance, it is mentioned that “Degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate level in conformity with UGC notification on Specification of Degrees, 2014 and post graduate diplomas awarded through Open and Distance training mode and/or Online mode by Higher Educational Institutions, recognised by the Commission under these regulations, shall be treated as equivalent to the corresponding awards of the Degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate level and post graduate diplomas offered through conventional mode.”

The notification further states, “This is for information to the general public, students, and other stakeholders.” Earlier, UGC invited suggestions and comments from various stakeholders on draft amendments it prepared for ODL and online programmes. The initiative was taken to guarantee a simple ODL and online programme framework.