Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Tuesday addressed the 39th Convocation of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) in New Delhi, where more than 3.2 lakh learners were conferred degrees, diplomas, and certificates.
Describing IGNOU as a cornerstone of inclusive and accessible higher education, the Vice President highlighted its vast reach, noting that the university currently has over 14 lakh learners. He pointed out that 56 per cent of them are women, while 58 per cent come from rural and disadvantaged backgrounds, underscoring its role in promoting educational equity and social mobility.
“Its learner base exceeds the population of many countries,” V-P Radhakrishnan said, emphasising the institution’s significant contribution to expanding access to higher education in India. He also encouraged students to embrace lifelong learning, uphold ethical values, and contribute actively to nation-building.
Referring to the resilience shown during the COVID-19 pandemic, V-P Radhakrishnan said IGNOU effectively leveraged its distance learning model and digital platforms such as SWAYAM and e-GyanKosh to ensure continuity in education. He noted that the university emerged as a leader in technology-enabled learning during the crisis.
Welcoming reforms under the National Education Policy (NEP), V-P Radhakrishnan said IGNOU has introduced flexible four-year undergraduate programmes with multiple exit options, making education more learner-centric. He also praised the integration of Indian knowledge systems with modern academic frameworks.
On the role of emerging technologies, the Vice President said tools such as Artificial Intelligence can significantly enhance learning experiences and provide personalised education. However, he stressed that such advancements must be used responsibly and guided by ethical considerations.
“Modern development must align with traditions, and scientific progress should be guided by ethical values,” V-P Radhakrishnan said, adding that India’s strength lies in its deep-rooted value system.
During the ceremony, the Vice President also released digital certificates on DigiLocker under the National Academic Depository to facilitate easy access for students. He launched the IGNOU Alumni Portal, which has already recorded over 5 million registrations, and inaugurated SWAYAM Prabha studios at regional centres across the country.
Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu, IGNOU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Uma Kanjilal, and other dignitaries attended the event, while several governors and state leaders joined virtually from regional centres.
Concluding his address, the Vice President said that collective individual efforts would play a crucial role in building a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.
