Nalco CMD Dr Tapan Kumar Chand has sought collaboration of the Odisha State Open University (OSOU) for rendering skill-based training to the youth of western Odisha.
Chand made this proposal to the OSOU while attending as chief guest at the fourth foundation day celebrations of the university held here on Monday.
OSOU Vice Chancellor Prof Srikant Mohapatra said, “We are in the process of drafting a proposal to enhance the employability of our underprivileged, young jobseekers.”
Educational Technology and Management Academy, New Delhi Director Prof Marmar Mukhopadyaya opined that open and distant learning doesn’t create learned people rather it creates learners only.
Among others, VSSUT VC Prof Atal Chaudri, Usha Martin University VC Prof SC Garg and former MLA Dr Raseswari Panigrahi graced as guests.
The event also saw the university signing two MOUs with the Usha Martin University, Ranchi and the Jean Foundation, New Delhi for mutual exchange of self-learning materials. To fulfill its mandate of providing quality education, research and training at affordable costs, the OSOU functions through a network of regional centers and study centers, spread across the State.
Apart from its diploma, certificate and modular programs, the university also offers bachelor degree, master degree as well as post graduate
sdiploma programmes in traditional as well as professional subjects. The UGC has granted permission to OSOU to offer 26 courses through open and distance learning mode.
“In four years, we have admitted 12,000 students and 70 per cent of them have come from rural areas,” declared the VC. In many ways its interactive website serves as a virtual classroom-cum-library. Students have 24X7
access to online study materials and uploaded lectures by experts. “We have proved that a university can run through a mobile phone, said Mohapatra.
The World Bank has identified the OSOU for an Aid of Rs 25 crore for quality and excellence in higher education in the State.