698 Graduates Awarded Certificates at 27^TH Convocation of IGNOU

Port Blair, April 16: The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), Regional Centre Port Blair today organized its 27^th Convocation at the JNRM Gallery, Port Blair. On the occasion, the Regional Centre awarded graduation certificates to 698 students. Dr. M. Sasikumar, Deputy Director, Anthropological Survey of India, Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre was the Guest of Honour at Port Blair Regional Centre.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest Dr. M. Sasikumar said that the Regional Centre has achieved several feets during its short span of 8 years. IGNOU has a cumulative strength of 3.5 million students, offering through 21 schools of studies and delivered through 59 Regional Centres, 7 sub Regional Centres, 2600 Study Centres across India. The University has strengthened its presence in 40 countries beyond the Indian shores and 52 overseas partner institutions.

The Chief Guest further said that in order to disseminate the knowledge and to provide effective student support services, the University has Gyan Vani Stations & Gyan Darshan Educational Channels. IGNOU is not only working for the betterment of the islanders but is also giving them an opportunity for higher education at its doorsteps. He congratulated all the graduates of the 27^th Convocation on completion of their degree and wished them a bright future ahead and successful life in all their future endeavours.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Kasturi Pesala, Regional Director (i/c) IGNOU said that till date the Regional Centre, Port Blair has enrolled 14,300 learners in their 08 Learner Support Centres. It has also started a new course MA (Anthropology) in collaboration with Anthropological Survey of India, Andaman Region.

The Regional Director (i/c) giving a brief about the University & its activities said that IGNOU is also planning to conduct Pre-Admission Counseling for school students in the future.

The occasion was graced by Prof Iqbal Ahamad, Principal JNRM, Port Blair as special guest, Dr. Ashok. K. Pandey, Coordinator, Study Centre-Mayabunder, Dignitaries from various departments, study centre functionaries, academic & non academic staff of JNRM. At the conclusion, Dr. J.S. Manhas, Study Centre-Coordinator, Port Blair Study Centre proposed the vote of thanks.