The Context Behind the Change

On January 26, 2026, the Vice-Chancellor of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), Professor Uma Kanjilal, emphasised that online and distance learning (ODL) will be a cornerstone strategy to achieve India’s goal of a 50% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) by 2035 under the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan framework. According to her, conventional campus-based education alone cannot scale fast enough to meet the demand for higher education access across the country. IGNOU, one of the largest open universities globally, is fast-tracking a digital transformation, developing an integrated student app, automated evaluation systems, and services in multiple regional languages. The university is also expanding digital assignment submission and evaluation tools while leveraging television and regional centres to bridge connectivity and last-mile access barriers. Kanjilal stressed that achieving this higher enrollment through ODL requires regulatory streamlining, automation of academic processes, and a more inclusive delivery model to cater to learners across diverse geographies and languages.

The Impact Matrix

• Signals a major shift in India’s higher education landscape

  
  

• Positions online & distance learning (ODL) as a long-term, systemic solution — not a temporary alternative

  
  

• With ~39 lakh IGNOU learners and millions in ODL programmes, the move is expected to influence universities nationwide

  
  

• Increased focus on regulatory reform and automation will drive faster digital adoption

  
  

• Helps reduce educational inequality and expand access for rural and under-served learners

  
  

• Supports lifelong learning for working professionals and non-traditional students

  
  

• Availability of courses in 22 Indian languages enhances inclusivity and regional relevance

  
  

• Encourages institutions to innovate, invest in technology, and modernise delivery models

  
  

• Accelerates India’s shift to a blended, tech-enabled higher education ecosystem

Through the Studium Lens

At Studium, we believe this focus on online and distance learning aligns perfectly with the future of institutional excellence. As Indian higher education embraces digital transformation, institutions must prioritise quality assurance, accreditation readiness, and data-driven improvement — all areas where Studium excels. Our AI-powered accreditation management platform helps colleges and universities streamline data workflows, generate automated reports, and prepare for accreditation reviews efficiently, saving time and effort. With the shift toward ODL and digital learning systems, quality frameworks like NAAC, NBA, NIRF and AACSB will increasingly demand transparent evidence of digital pedagogy, learner outcomes, and continuous improvement — areas where Studium’s predictive analytics and documentation tools can play a crucial role. By helping institutions build robust digital quality systems, Studium supports scalability while maintaining academic excellence in the era of online and distance education.

CEO’s Pull Quote

“As India accelerates towards higher enrolment through online and distance learning, quality assurance must evolve in tandem. At Studium, we’re committed to empowering institutions with the tools and insights they need to deliver scalable, credible, and impactful learning outcomes across every mode of education.”