SPEECH BY HER EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA, SHRIMATI PRATIBHA DEVISINGH PATIL AT THE LAYING OF THE FOUNDATION STONE FOR THE IGNOU REGIONAL CAMPUS

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 31st August 2011

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am happy to be laying the foundation stone for the Regional Campus of the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) in Thiruvananthapuram. This, I believe, is one of the five regional campuses proposed to be established for the purpose of providing open and distance learning services in a better way, through decentralization of administrative and academic functions of the University. This is important and an incremental step forward in the mission of IGNOU to make available good quality, low cost and relevant higher education opportunities, as widely as possible, to a section of our society outside the formal education system. In the last 25 years since its establishment in 1985, IGNOU has expanded exponentially with enrollments reaching close to 3.8 million. This speaks volumes about the success achieved and it must continue with its outreach endeavour. I would also like to appreciate the Government of Kerala for its positive and forthcoming attitude in supporting the establishment of the IGNOU Southern Regional Centre.

There is now universalization of primary education. We hope to move forward in this direction for secondary education as well. However, our ultimate aim is to increase the enrollment ratio of people receiving higher education. We would need to expand our education infrastructure. This, undoubtedly, will include the formal education system, but we would even need to reach out to those who wish to seek higher education but are unable, due to a variety of reasons, to avail of options in the formal education sector. This category consists of a wide range of people from rural and tribal areas, disability groups, jails and rehabilitation centers, Government and Non Governmental Organizations, parents and home-makers, as also employers and the employees. All want to better their avenues for growth, and to do it in a manner that is suitable to their specific circumstances.

It is flexibility in its approach that has contributed to the success of IGNOU. Mindful that most courses are for the working population of the country, it has been innovative in putting together programmes that cater to a wide section of its users. In fact, this is also necessary, as apart from providing educational facilities, universities must promote skill development. The link between learning and livelihood is important. Distance learning, therefore, must give weightage to enhancing knowledge that gives practical and necessary know how for livelihood opportunities. Speaking at the Silver Jubilee celebrations of IGNOU in November 2009, I had pointed out to the fact that only 5 percent of the workforce in India has some kind of certification. A system that addresses this lacuna is important for creating a proper skilled workforce in the country and helping them to get better remuneration. I am glad that there have been attempts by IGNOU to look at work integrated learning by setting up centres in industrial establishments. Distance education offers a great opportunity to those already in employment to upgrade their knowledge base, so that they can more effectively contribute to increasing productivity levels of their organizations. Studying, while in employment, also offers opportunities for enhancement of career opportunities.

Distance education and technology have close links. As communication technology advanced, the scope of distance learning correspondingly increased. Indeed, this has not only propelled IGNOU, but several other universities are also expanding their online programmes for improving access to education. Online connectivity is a convenient means to provide educational material to students in a timely manner. Distance education can even serve the national development agenda, by reaching out to farmers and health workers to provide them information that is relevant for them. There is a need for the Government and universities to act in concert, to work on socially relevant issues and to reach out to a broad segment of society.

The regional centres of IGNOU by coming close to the learning community they serve, can now structure courses that take into account local requirements. Kerala does not only have a high literacy rate, but it is also a State where there is enormous scope for tourism, IT and bio-technology among others. It also has plantations, agriculture and other traditional industries. These sectors can greatly benefit from technology and knowledge inputs.

Education should be of good quality and efforts must be to constantly uphold high standards of education to build a responsible citizenry. Swami Vivekananda said, "We want that education by which character is formed, strength of mind is increased, the intellect is expanded and by which one can stand on one's own feet." The education system must look at the holistic development of the youth of the country. Education is about knowledge. It pushes the frontiers of knowledge. It should be the aim of the youth to become intellectually competent and technically skilled. Knowledge without values is, however, incomplete. Education without values is like a flower without fragrance. Education should impart values to the youth that makes them sensitive to fellow human beings and the environs around them. It is a value system that can prepare the younger generation to become responsible citizens. Values provide an anchor in life, as well as the ability to take decisions, however difficult. They make one strong and capable of withstanding the trials and tribulations of life. Also, if students were equipped with the right value base, along with the capabilities created by science and technology, they will serve society with devotion and commitment, creating prosperity and happiness.

I am confident that the Regional Centre being established, will promote the Open University system through the development, maintenance and monitoring of Study Centres and student support services. With these words, I wish IGNOU the very best for the future, and convey my good wishes to all present here.

Thank you.

Jai Hind!