Distance learning system: HEC, AIOU to make policy
The AIOU, being the oldest public-sector institution in distance learning in Pakistan
The AIOU, being the oldest public-sector institution in distance learning in Pakistan. PHOTO: APP
A national policy on open distance learning (ODL) is on cards to provide a guideline to relevant institutions for promoting literacy and higher education through a unified and effective mode of education, said a press release issued on Monday.
The recommendations of the policy will be evolved at a three-day national conference being organised by the Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) in collaboration with the Higher Education Commission (HEC) in Islamabad this month.
The recommendations will be presented to the federal government for approval and implementation.
The AIOU, being the oldest public-sector institution in distance learning in Pakistan, wishes to play a leading role in the formation of a national policy on ODL, said AIOU Vice-Chancellor (VC) Dr Shahid Siddique.
The heads of about 15 institutions, engaged in distance learning education, will participate. Representatives of member countries of Commonwealth of Learning have also been invited so as to benefit from their expertise and experience in promotion of open distance learning.
The national policy on ODL will help expand the educational network and improve quality of education through non-formal or online system as well as its acceptability in society. It will also be in line with the government’s policy to promote online learning, the VC added.
Published in The Express Tribune, August 4th, 2015.