IGNOU stands for Indira Gandhi National Open University.
📘 About IGNOU
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Full Name: Indira Gandhi National Open University
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Established: 1985
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Headquarters: Maidan Garhi, New Delhi, India
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Named After: Former Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi
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Motto: “The People's University”
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Type: Central Open University (Public University)
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Managed by: Government of India under the Ministry of Education
🎓 Purpose and Objectives
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To provide higher education to all sections of society, especially those who cannot attend regular colleges.
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To promote distance and open learning in India and abroad.
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To offer flexible, affordable, and accessible education for students of all ages and backgrounds.
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To encourage research, innovation, and continuing education.
🏫 Academic Structure
IGNOU has:
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21 Schools of Studies (e.g., School of Humanities, School of Social Sciences, School of Sciences, School of Education, etc.)
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67 Regional Centres and over 2000 Study Centres across India.
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International Centres in countries like UAE, Nepal, Singapore, and Mauritius.
📚 Popular Courses Offered
IGNOU offers more than 200 programs, including:
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Undergraduate: B.A., B.Com, B.Sc, BCA, BSW, etc.
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Postgraduate: M.A., M.Com, MBA, MCA, MSW, M.Sc, etc.
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Diploma & Certificate: in fields like Journalism, Tourism, Education, Computer Applications, Rural Development, etc.
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Doctoral & Research Programs
💻 Mode of Education
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Distance Learning (Offline): Through printed materials and counselling at study centres.
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Online Learning: Through SWAYAM, IGNOU eGyankosh, and IGNOU Online Portal.
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Hybrid Learning: Combination of online and face-to-face sessions.
🌐 Digital Initiatives
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eGyanKosh: Repository of digital learning materials.
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SWAYAM & SWAYAM Prabha: Platforms for online learning and video lectures.
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IGNOU Mobile App: For accessing study materials and results.
📆 Examinations and Evaluation
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Term End Examinations (TEE): Held twice a year — June and December.
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Assignments: Mandatory part of evaluation; must be submitted before exams.
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Grading System: Letter grade with GPA-based evaluation.
🎯 Key Features
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Flexible admission and examination schedule.
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Affordable fees structure.
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Recognition by UGC (University Grants Commission) and AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education).
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Degrees are valid for government and private sector jobs.
