The Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan Deemed to be University (SOA) and the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly offer seven academic programs in agricultural sciences through distance education. This partnership aims to provide educational opportunities to the communities at large by setting up a Learner Support Centre (LSC) in SOA's Institute of Agricultural Sciences (IAS).
Key Features of the MoU:
- Academic Programs: The LSC will initially offer:
- Certificate Programs: Organic Farming, Bee Keeping, Poultry Farming
- Diploma Programs: Horticulture, Dairy Technology
- Post Graduate Diploma Program: Agribusiness
- Post Graduate Certificate: Agricultural Policy
- Infrastructure Support: SOA will provide:
- Space and classrooms
- Laboratory and computer facilities
- Library access for reference purposes
- A full-fledged computer lab with internet and printing facilities
Benefits:
- The collaboration will enhance access to quality education in agricultural sciences for students in Odisha.
- The number of programs offered is expected to increase over time, providing more opportunities for students.
The MoU was signed by Prof. Pradipta Kumar Nanda, Vice-Chancellor of SOA, and Dr. Manorama Singh, Director (RSD) of IGNOU, marking a significant step in promoting educational collaboration between the two institutions.