Assam Agricultural University - Open and Distance Learning initiative launched

GUWAHATI: The Open and Distance Learning (ODL) initiative under Assam Agricultural University (AAU) formally commenced with two orientation training programmes on Open and Distance Learning, Andragogy and Preparation of Self Learning Material for course directors of Assam Agricultural University at the College of Veterinary Science at Khanapara on July 29 and 30.

The training programmes were aimed at sensitizing the identified course directors-cum-content developers of Assam Agricultural University on the philosophy and principles of ODL, andragogy and precepts for the preparation of self-learning materials. The course directors from the faculties of Veterinary and Fishery Science under Assam Agricultural University were trained on July 29 while those from the faculties of Agriculture and Community Science were trained on July 30. As a resource person for the training programmes, Dr Pranab Saikia, Associate Professor of Krishna Kanta Handique State Open University, dealt with the conceptual framework of ODL, as well as andragogical aspects of distance education. Dr PVK Sasidhar, Director of the School of Extension & Development Studies, IGNOU, New Delhi, trained the participants on the structure, format and ground rules for the preparation of self-learning materials under the ODL system.

Speaking during the inaugural session of the training programmes as the chief guest, Dr BN Saikia, Dean of the College of Veterinary Science remarked that ODL has been accorded its rightful place in the educational ecosystem of the country of late and holds immense promise for building quality human capital in agriculture and allied areas. The meeting was also addressed by Dr N Kalita, Director of Research (Vety), Dr BK Sarma, Joint Registrar of AAU, Dr P. Bora, Chairman of the AAU-ODL advisory board and Dr A Borgohain, Associate Director of Extension Education. Earlier, Dr RK Thakuria, Director of AAU-ODL outlined the genesis of the ODL initiative of AAU while Dr JK Sharma anchored the inaugural meeting.

Altogether 47-course directors from four faculties of AAU participated in the training programmes. It may be mentioned that AAU has initiated the ODL mode of education and plans to propose need-based diplomas, certificate and short-term training courses in agriculture and allied areas in a phased manner. A separate directorate of ODL has been established at the Khanapara campus of AAU exclusively for the purpose, a press release said.

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