Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Regional Centre Kohima held its 39th Convocation on April 7 at the State Academy Hall, marking a significant academic milestone for hundreds of learners across Nagaland.
Gracing the occasion as Guest of Honour, Director General of Police, Nagaland, Rupin Sharma emphasized that learning does not conclude with the attainment of a degree but continues throughout life, urging graduates to remain intellectually curious and adaptable in an ever-evolving world.
Reflecting on the transformative power of knowledge, Sharma highlighted that education plays a pivotal role not only in individual advancement but also in shaping progressive societies. He noted that access to learning, documentation and the exchange of ideas have historically distinguished developed societies from those left behind.
Encouraging graduates to embrace diverse learning avenues, he pointed out that meaningful knowledge is gained through experience, dialogue, and exposure to different perspectives.
He also underscored the importance of open and distance learning systems, stating that institutions like IGNOU have democratised education by reaching learners who may otherwise face barriers due to geography, finances, or personal circumstances. Such flexible learning models, he said, reflect the inclusivity of modern education.
Earlier, Assistant Regional Director, Dr Mayonmi Shimray welcomed the gathering and expressed appreciation to the Guest of Honour for his presence. He informed that the convocation was conducted simultaneously with the main ceremony at IGNOU Headquarters in New Delhi, where CP Radhakrishnan attended as Chief Guest. Across the country and abroad, a total of 2,99,092 learners were awarded degrees, diplomas, and certificates.
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At the Kohima Regional Centre, 801 learners were declared eligible for various qualifications, including 583 Master’s degrees, 151 Bachelor’s degrees, 25 diplomas, and 14 certificates. Of these, around 240 graduates were present to receive their certificates during the ceremony.
The Regional Director highlighted IGNOU’s academic excellence, noting its A++ accreditation by NAAC and its top ranking among open universities in the National Institutional Ranking Framework. With over 333 programmes offered through 21 Schools of Studies, IGNOU continues to expand its academic reach supported by an extensive network of regional and learner support centres.
Digital initiatives such as e-Gyankosh and its role in coordinating SWAYAM and SWAYAM Prabha platforms were also emphasized.
Providing an overview of the Kohima centre, it was stated that since its establishment on December 14, 2000, it has grown from just 32 learners in 2001 to facilitating over 20,000 successful learners. The centre currently operates 16 study centres across the state.
The convocation programme included the rendition of the IGNOU Kulgeet, followed by a sharing session by learners. Degrees were then conferred upon the graduates by the Guest of Honour. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by R.V. Tetso, Assistant Registrar, IGNOU Kohima, and the National Anthem.
