Higher Education for All: New Undergraduate and Postgraduate Programs Launched at Fakir Mohan University’s Distance and Virtual Learning Centre
Balasore, Sept 2 (Krushna Kumar Mohanty): Fakir Mohan University’s Distance and Virtual Learning Centre has entered a new phase in modern education. On August 30, the University Grants Commission’s Directorate of Distance Education re-approved 11 undergraduate courses. With this, the centre has now expanded academic opportunities at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
At the undergraduate level, courses are now available in Economics, Political Science, Sociology, History, Odia, English, Sanskrit, and Education with Honours, along with Commerce, Business Administration, and Library & Information Science. At the postgraduate level, Library & Information Science has been newly introduced.
In addition, postgraduate programs in Odia, English, Sanskrit, Economics, Political Science, History, Sociology, Education, Social Work, and Commerce continue as before.
In the first admission cycle held in February this year, 221 students enrolled in various postgraduate programs. In the ongoing July cycle, more than 200 students have already registered. Since the admission process will continue until October 15, the number is expected to rise further.
The university has stated that this approval reflects the core objectives of the National Education Policy—“inclusivity in education, accessibility, and learner-centric opportunities.” Through distance and virtual learning, students from remote areas, working professionals, women, and learners seeking a second chance will gain access to quality education.
This achievement highlights the visionary leadership, strong determination, and far-reaching academic planning of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Santosh Kumar Tripathy, who has recently been widely appreciated for his contribution to higher education. With this new step, the Distance and Virtual Learning Centre of Fakir Mohan University is expected to provide an alternative mode of learning not only for Odisha but also for students across India.
An interface meeting held under the guidance of the Vice-Chancellor brought together heads of departments and appointed faculty members to discuss course material preparation, teacher training, and academic planning. The centre operates from its main office located at the Remuna campus of Fakir Mohan University.
In this context, Prof. (Dr.) Munesh Chandra Adhikari, Director of the Centre, and Dr. Debadatta Das, Deputy Registrar, expressed optimism about the successful implementation of the new undergraduate programs. Experts believe that this approval will not only strengthen the centre’s position as a prominent distance and virtual learning hub but will also help it play an important role in the national education landscape.
