Wed Feb 25 14:25:33 UTC 2026: ### University of Calicut Seeks Expansion of Online Programs Amidst Restructuring of Distance Education

The Story:

The University of Calicut is awaiting approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC) to expand its online program offerings through its Centre for Distance and Online Education. The university recently launched postgraduate (PG) programs in Political Science, History, Economics, and Sociology and is seeking approval for additional undergraduate (UG) and PG courses. This move comes after the Sreenarayana Guru Open University began full-fledged operations, leading to the discontinuation of several distance education programs previously offered by the University of Calicut.

Concerns have been raised regarding the cost of the new online courses compared to the previous distance education programs. The university aims to cater to a broader audience, including foreign citizens and employed individuals, by removing age limits and allowing students to switch between regular and online programs.

Key Points:

  • The University of Calicut has requested the UGC to approve more online programs.
  • The university initially sought approval for three UG and six PG programs, but only four PG programs were approved initially.
  • The online programs are divided into two schemes: one allowing online learning with exams at Learning Support Centers and another allowing both learning and exams online.
  • Syndicate member P. Rasheed Ahammed noted the discontinuation of 13 PG and 12 UG programs after the Sreenarayana Guru Open University’s launch.
  • Concerns have been raised about the higher cost of the online courses compared to previous distance education programs.
  • The new online courses are open to foreign citizens and employed people with no age limit.

Critical Analysis:

The University of Calicut’s push for expanded online programs appears to be a strategic response to the changing landscape of distance education in Kerala, particularly after the establishment of the Sreenarayana Guru Open University. The discontinuation of existing programs suggests a possible restructuring of responsibilities within the state’s higher education system. The university’s focus on online programs could be an attempt to regain its footing in the distance education sector while catering to a more diverse and geographically dispersed student base.

Key Takeaways:

  • The University of Calicut is adapting to changes in the distance education sector by focusing on online programs.
  • The establishment of the Sreenarayana Guru Open University has impacted the University of Calicut’s distance education offerings.
  • Accessibility and flexibility are key drivers behind the university’s push for online programs.
  • The cost of online education remains a concern for some stakeholders.

Impact Analysis:

The expansion of online programs at the University of Calicut could have several long-term implications:

  • Increased Access to Education: Online programs can provide educational opportunities to a wider range of students, including those in remote areas, working professionals, and international students.
  • Competition in Higher Education: The move could intensify competition among universities in Kerala, particularly in the online education sector.
  • Technological Advancements in Education: The focus on online programs may drive further investment in educational technology and innovative teaching methods.
  • Economic Impact: The increased enrollment of foreign students in online programs could contribute to the university’s revenue and the local economy.

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