AIOU launches 10 BS programmes

Two of the programmes are being introduced as blended, E-Learning programmes

ISLAMABAD: The Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) has decided to launch 10 four-year Bachelor of Studies programmes, keeping in view the newly emerging academic trends and the market-based students’ needs.

A decision to this effect was taken by AIOU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Ziaul Qayyum on the recommendations of the university’s Academic Council.

The ten programmes include Library and Information Sciences, Gender and Women Studies, Islamic Studies, Arabic, Mass Communication, Urdu, English, Pakistan Studies, Accounting and Finance and Instructional Design and Technology.

The admissions director has stipulated October 15 as the last date for receiving applications for admissions in these programmes, which have been offered for students across the country.

Of the ten programmes, eight have been introduced in line with the varsity’s Open Distance Learning system. The two remaining programmes — Accounting and Finance and Instructional Design and Technology — are being introduced as blended and E-Learning mode programmes.

Recently, the AIOU put in place a comprehensive annual academic calendar for the first time in varsity’s history. It facilitates the overall learning system, including timely admissions, examination and book mailing process.

The university’s spring and autumn semester dates were fixed for arranging Matric, intermediate, Graduate and post-Graduates admissions and exams to facilitate students and bringing transparency to the entire process.

Varsity officials say they are working on introducing a digitalized and online system to provide efficient services to students at their door-step.

Meanwhile, the university’s 49 regional offices were being empowered, enabling them to provide academic facilities and a learning environment to its 1.4 million students.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 16^th, 2019.