Acceptance of Distance Education Degrees
Students had complained against KU authorities for not accepting their BCA and MCA degrees obtained from IGNOU.
As the authorities in Kashmir University (KU) remain indecisive about recognition of degrees obtained from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), the students are feeling depressed over the fate of their certificates.
Earlier, the authorities in KU had agreed to take a final call on the issue, however there has been no breakthrough in the issue leaving the students in lurch.
Students had complained against KU authorities for not accepting their BCA and MCA degrees obtained from IGNOU.
KU authorities, according to IGNOU pass outs, had not entertained their forms for further studies. IGNOU regional office referred the matter to its New Delhi headquarters after KU’s refusal, which triggered resentment among qualified youth in valley.
Students said they are still waiting for university decision regarding the issue. “Recently, KU authorities issued a notice regarding admissions but we were informed that they are yet to resolve our issue,” said an IGNOU pass-out.
On May 3, Registrar IGNOU has sent a letter to Registrar Kashmir University, Prof. Zaffar Ahmad Reshi, regarding the issue of non-recognition of IGNOU B.Sc./BCA/MCA degrees by University of Kashmir.
The registrar IGNOU has ‘objected’ to the Circular issued by Assistant Registrar, Academics, of the KU regarding the issue saying, “The Circular is not in conformity with UGC Regulations of 1985 published in the Gazette of India vide Notification No F.1-117/83(CP) dated 25th November, 1985, and also not in tune with the judgment of JK High Court,” reads the letter.
The Registrar IGNOU has pointed out that IGNOU Act has mandated Indira Gandhi National Open University to democratize higher education. “Unlike conventional Universities, IGNOU is not offering Bachelors Degree with ‘Honours’ in any discipline of Science. However, a learner can obtain a ‘Major’ Degree in the area of his/her specialization on successful completion of 40 to 48 credits in the Elective Courses,” the letter reads.
The IGNOU authorities have maintained that extensive theory and laboratory practical sessions are conducted by the university where in students appear in examination conducted by external examiners at the designated laboratories activated as a Study Centre for Science Programme of IGNOU.
“Practical exams are conducted at the designated Study Centers in case of BCA and MCA Programmes,” the letter reads.
Registrar Kashmir University, Prof. Zaffar Ahmad Reshi confirmed the receipt of the letter and said the issue will be resolved in coming days.
“We will discuss the matter with academic council and expedite the process to take a final decision on the issue,” Prof. Reshi said.
