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</p>
<p>
<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.</p>
<p>
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.</p>
<p>
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.</p>
<p>
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.</p>
<p>
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis. </p>
<p>
<img alt="ICA Gives Flavours of Openness" height="308" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_classroom(1).jpg" style="margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="595" /></p>
<p>
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>Premium courses of IGNOU:</strong></p>
<p>
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management. </p>
<p>
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.</p>
<p>
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.</p>
<p>
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.</p>
<p>
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development</p>
<p>
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.</p>
<p>
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.</p>
<p>
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.</p>
<p>
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.</p>
<p>
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.</p>
<p>
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.</p>
<p>
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.</p>
<p>
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills. </p>
<p>
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme. </p>
<div>
<hr />
</div>
<p>
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>
<strong>‘We plan to add more programmes’</strong></p>
<div>
<strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img alt="Biswajit Mukherjee, Chairperson / MD ICA" height="315" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_chairperson_biswajit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?</strong></div>
<div>
<p>
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002. </p>
<p>
<strong>What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?</strong></p>
<p>
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then. </p>
<p>
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status? </strong></p>
<p>
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one <span style="font-size: 12px;">to one and a half years.</span></p>
<p>
<strong>Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use? </strong></p>
<p>
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are your faculty? </strong></p>
<p>
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better. </p>
<p>
<strong>What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?</strong></p>
<p>
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are your future plans?</strong></p>
<p>
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit. </p>
<p>
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.</p>
<hr />
<div>
</div>
<p>
<strong>‘Ours is <span style="font-size: 12px;">learner-centric learning process’</span></strong></p>
<p>
<strong><img alt="Amit Giri, CEO, ICA" height="290" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_ceo_amit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How does one study without attending classes?</strong></p>
<p>
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM. </p>
<p>
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory. </p>
<p>
<strong>What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?</strong></p>
<p>
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.</p>
<p>
<strong>Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What is the evaluation mechanism?</strong></p>
<p>
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners. </p>
<p>
<strong>Where are the Term End Exams held?</strong></p>
<p>
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.</p>
<p>
<strong>Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?</strong></p>
<p>
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal</p>
<p>
<strong>We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement. </p>
<p>
<strong>Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?</strong></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.</span></p>
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</p>
<p>
<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.</p>
<p>
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.</p>
<p>
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.</p>
<p>
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.</p>
<p>
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis. </p>
<p>
<img alt="ICA Gives Flavours of Openness" height="308" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_classroom(1).jpg" style="margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="595" /></p>
<p>
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>Premium courses of IGNOU:</strong></p>
<p>
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management. </p>
<p>
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.</p>
<p>
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.</p>
<p>
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.</p>
<p>
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development</p>
<p>
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.</p>
<p>
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.</p>
<p>
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.</p>
<p>
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.</p>
<p>
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.</p>
<p>
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.</p>
<p>
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.</p>
<p>
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills. </p>
<p>
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme. </p>
<div>
<hr />
</div>
<p>
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>
<strong>‘We plan to add more programmes’</strong></p>
<div>
<strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img alt="Biswajit Mukherjee, Chairperson / MD ICA" height="315" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_chairperson_biswajit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?</strong></div>
<div>
<p>
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002. </p>
<p>
<strong>What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?</strong></p>
<p>
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then. </p>
<p>
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status? </strong></p>
<p>
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one <span style="font-size: 12px;">to one and a half years.</span></p>
<p>
<strong>Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use? </strong></p>
<p>
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are your faculty? </strong></p>
<p>
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better. </p>
<p>
<strong>What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?</strong></p>
<p>
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are your future plans?</strong></p>
<p>
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit. </p>
<p>
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.</p>
<hr />
<div>
</div>
<p>
<strong>‘Ours is <span style="font-size: 12px;">learner-centric learning process’</span></strong></p>
<p>
<strong><img alt="Amit Giri, CEO, ICA" height="290" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_ceo_amit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How does one study without attending classes?</strong></p>
<p>
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM. </p>
<p>
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory. </p>
<p>
<strong>What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?</strong></p>
<p>
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.</p>
<p>
<strong>Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What is the evaluation mechanism?</strong></p>
<p>
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners. </p>
<p>
<strong>Where are the Term End Exams held?</strong></p>
<p>
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.</p>
<p>
<strong>Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?</strong></p>
<p>
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal</p>
<p>
<strong>We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement. </p>
<p>
<strong>Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?</strong></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.</span></p>
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<p>
<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.</p>
<p>
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.</p>
<p>
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.</p>
<p>
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.</p>
<p>
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis. </p>
<p>
<img alt="ICA Gives Flavours of Openness" height="308" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_classroom(1).jpg" style="margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="595" /></p>
<p>
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>Premium courses of IGNOU:</strong></p>
<p>
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management. </p>
<p>
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.</p>
<p>
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.</p>
<p>
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.</p>
<p>
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development</p>
<p>
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.</p>
<p>
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.</p>
<p>
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.</p>
<p>
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.</p>
<p>
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.</p>
<p>
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.</p>
<p>
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.</p>
<p>
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills. </p>
<p>
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme. </p>
<div>
<hr />
</div>
<p>
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>
<strong>‘We plan to add more programmes’</strong></p>
<div>
<strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img alt="Biswajit Mukherjee, Chairperson / MD ICA" height="315" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_chairperson_biswajit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?</strong></div>
<div>
<p>
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002. </p>
<p>
<strong>What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?</strong></p>
<p>
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then. </p>
<p>
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status? </strong></p>
<p>
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one <span style="font-size: 12px;">to one and a half years.</span></p>
<p>
<strong>Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use? </strong></p>
<p>
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are your faculty? </strong></p>
<p>
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better. </p>
<p>
<strong>What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?</strong></p>
<p>
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are your future plans?</strong></p>
<p>
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit. </p>
<p>
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.</p>
<hr />
<div>
</div>
<p>
<strong>‘Ours is <span style="font-size: 12px;">learner-centric learning process’</span></strong></p>
<p>
<strong><img alt="Amit Giri, CEO, ICA" height="290" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_ceo_amit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How does one study without attending classes?</strong></p>
<p>
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM. </p>
<p>
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory. </p>
<p>
<strong>What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?</strong></p>
<p>
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.</p>
<p>
<strong>Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What is the evaluation mechanism?</strong></p>
<p>
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners. </p>
<p>
<strong>Where are the Term End Exams held?</strong></p>
<p>
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.</p>
<p>
<strong>Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?</strong></p>
<p>
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal</p>
<p>
<strong>We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement. </p>
<p>
<strong>Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?</strong></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.</span></p>
</div>
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<p>
<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.</p>
<p>
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.</p>
<p>
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.</p>
<p>
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.</p>
<p>
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis. </p>
<p>
<img alt="ICA Gives Flavours of Openness" height="308" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_classroom(1).jpg" style="margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="595" /></p>
<p>
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>Premium courses of IGNOU:</strong></p>
<p>
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management. </p>
<p>
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.</p>
<p>
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.</p>
<p>
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.</p>
<p>
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development</p>
<p>
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.</p>
<p>
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.</p>
<p>
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.</p>
<p>
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.</p>
<p>
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.</p>
<p>
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.</p>
<p>
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.</p>
<p>
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills. </p>
<p>
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme. </p>
<div>
<hr />
</div>
<p>
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>
<strong>‘We plan to add more programmes’</strong></p>
<div>
<strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img alt="Biswajit Mukherjee, Chairperson / MD ICA" height="315" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_chairperson_biswajit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?</strong></div>
<div>
<p>
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002. </p>
<p>
<strong>What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?</strong></p>
<p>
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then. </p>
<p>
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status? </strong></p>
<p>
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one <span style="font-size: 12px;">to one and a half years.</span></p>
<p>
<strong>Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use? </strong></p>
<p>
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are your faculty? </strong></p>
<p>
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better. </p>
<p>
<strong>What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?</strong></p>
<p>
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are your future plans?</strong></p>
<p>
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit. </p>
<p>
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.</p>
<hr />
<div>
</div>
<p>
<strong>‘Ours is <span style="font-size: 12px;">learner-centric learning process’</span></strong></p>
<p>
<strong><img alt="Amit Giri, CEO, ICA" height="290" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_ceo_amit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How does one study without attending classes?</strong></p>
<p>
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM. </p>
<p>
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory. </p>
<p>
<strong>What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?</strong></p>
<p>
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.</p>
<p>
<strong>Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What is the evaluation mechanism?</strong></p>
<p>
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners. </p>
<p>
<strong>Where are the Term End Exams held?</strong></p>
<p>
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.</p>
<p>
<strong>Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?</strong></p>
<p>
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal</p>
<p>
<strong>We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement. </p>
<p>
<strong>Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?</strong></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.</span></p>
</div>
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<p>
<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.</p>
<p>
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.</p>
<p>
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.</p>
<p>
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.</p>
<p>
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis. </p>
<p>
<img alt="ICA Gives Flavours of Openness" height="308" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_classroom(1).jpg" style="margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="595" /></p>
<p>
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>Premium courses of IGNOU:</strong></p>
<p>
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management. </p>
<p>
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.</p>
<p>
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.</p>
<p>
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.</p>
<p>
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development</p>
<p>
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.</p>
<p>
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.</p>
<p>
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.</p>
<p>
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.</p>
<p>
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.</p>
<p>
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.</p>
<p>
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.</p>
<p>
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills. </p>
<p>
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme. </p>
<div>
<hr />
</div>
<p>
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>
<strong>‘We plan to add more programmes’</strong></p>
<div>
<strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img alt="Biswajit Mukherjee, Chairperson / MD ICA" height="315" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_chairperson_biswajit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?</strong></div>
<div>
<p>
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002. </p>
<p>
<strong>What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?</strong></p>
<p>
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then. </p>
<p>
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status? </strong></p>
<p>
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one <span style="font-size: 12px;">to one and a half years.</span></p>
<p>
<strong>Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use? </strong></p>
<p>
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are your faculty? </strong></p>
<p>
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better. </p>
<p>
<strong>What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?</strong></p>
<p>
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are your future plans?</strong></p>
<p>
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit. </p>
<p>
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.</p>
<hr />
<div>
</div>
<p>
<strong>‘Ours is <span style="font-size: 12px;">learner-centric learning process’</span></strong></p>
<p>
<strong><img alt="Amit Giri, CEO, ICA" height="290" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_ceo_amit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How does one study without attending classes?</strong></p>
<p>
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM. </p>
<p>
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory. </p>
<p>
<strong>What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?</strong></p>
<p>
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.</p>
<p>
<strong>Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What is the evaluation mechanism?</strong></p>
<p>
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners. </p>
<p>
<strong>Where are the Term End Exams held?</strong></p>
<p>
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.</p>
<p>
<strong>Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?</strong></p>
<p>
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal</p>
<p>
<strong>We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement. </p>
<p>
<strong>Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?</strong></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.</span></p>
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<p>
<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.</p>
<p>
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.</p>
<p>
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.</p>
<p>
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.</p>
<p>
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis. </p>
<p>
<img alt="ICA Gives Flavours of Openness" height="308" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_classroom(1).jpg" style="margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="595" /></p>
<p>
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>Premium courses of IGNOU:</strong></p>
<p>
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management. </p>
<p>
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.</p>
<p>
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.</p>
<p>
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.</p>
<p>
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development</p>
<p>
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.</p>
<p>
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.</p>
<p>
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.</p>
<p>
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.</p>
<p>
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.</p>
<p>
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.</p>
<p>
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.</p>
<p>
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills. </p>
<p>
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme. </p>
<div>
<hr />
</div>
<p>
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>
<strong>‘We plan to add more programmes’</strong></p>
<div>
<strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img alt="Biswajit Mukherjee, Chairperson / MD ICA" height="315" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_chairperson_biswajit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?</strong></div>
<div>
<p>
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002. </p>
<p>
<strong>What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?</strong></p>
<p>
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then. </p>
<p>
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status? </strong></p>
<p>
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one <span style="font-size: 12px;">to one and a half years.</span></p>
<p>
<strong>Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use? </strong></p>
<p>
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are your faculty? </strong></p>
<p>
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better. </p>
<p>
<strong>What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?</strong></p>
<p>
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are your future plans?</strong></p>
<p>
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit. </p>
<p>
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.</p>
<hr />
<div>
</div>
<p>
<strong>‘Ours is <span style="font-size: 12px;">learner-centric learning process’</span></strong></p>
<p>
<strong><img alt="Amit Giri, CEO, ICA" height="290" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_ceo_amit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How does one study without attending classes?</strong></p>
<p>
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM. </p>
<p>
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory. </p>
<p>
<strong>What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?</strong></p>
<p>
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.</p>
<p>
<strong>Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What is the evaluation mechanism?</strong></p>
<p>
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners. </p>
<p>
<strong>Where are the Term End Exams held?</strong></p>
<p>
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.</p>
<p>
<strong>Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?</strong></p>
<p>
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal</p>
<p>
<strong>We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement. </p>
<p>
<strong>Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?</strong></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.</span></p>
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Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis.
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.
Premium courses of IGNOU:
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management.
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills.
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme.
‘We plan to add more programmes’
How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002.
What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then.
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.
You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status?
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one to one and a half years.
Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.
What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use?
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.
Who are your faculty?
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better.
What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.
What are your future plans?
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit.
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.
‘Ours is learner-centric learning process’
How does one study without attending classes?
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM.
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory.
What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.
Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.
What is the evaluation mechanism?
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners.
Where are the Term End Exams held?
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.
Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal
We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement.
Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?
Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.
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</p>
<p>
<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.</p>
<p>
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.</p>
<p>
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.</p>
<p>
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.</p>
<p>
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis. </p>
<p>
<img alt="ICA Gives Flavours of Openness" height="308" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_classroom(1).jpg" style="margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="595" /></p>
<p>
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>Premium courses of IGNOU:</strong></p>
<p>
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management. </p>
<p>
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.</p>
<p>
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.</p>
<p>
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.</p>
<p>
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development</p>
<p>
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.</p>
<p>
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.</p>
<p>
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.</p>
<p>
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.</p>
<p>
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.</p>
<p>
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.</p>
<p>
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.</p>
<p>
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills. </p>
<p>
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme. </p>
<div>
<hr />
</div>
<p>
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>
<strong>‘We plan to add more programmes’</strong></p>
<div>
<strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img alt="Biswajit Mukherjee, Chairperson / MD ICA" height="315" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_chairperson_biswajit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?</strong></div>
<div>
<p>
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002. </p>
<p>
<strong>What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?</strong></p>
<p>
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then. </p>
<p>
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status? </strong></p>
<p>
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one <span style="font-size: 12px;">to one and a half years.</span></p>
<p>
<strong>Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use? </strong></p>
<p>
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are your faculty? </strong></p>
<p>
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better. </p>
<p>
<strong>What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?</strong></p>
<p>
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are your future plans?</strong></p>
<p>
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit. </p>
<p>
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.</p>
<hr />
<div>
</div>
<p>
<strong>‘Ours is <span style="font-size: 12px;">learner-centric learning process’</span></strong></p>
<p>
<strong><img alt="Amit Giri, CEO, ICA" height="290" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_ceo_amit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How does one study without attending classes?</strong></p>
<p>
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM. </p>
<p>
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory. </p>
<p>
<strong>What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?</strong></p>
<p>
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.</p>
<p>
<strong>Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What is the evaluation mechanism?</strong></p>
<p>
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners. </p>
<p>
<strong>Where are the Term End Exams held?</strong></p>
<p>
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.</p>
<p>
<strong>Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?</strong></p>
<p>
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal</p>
<p>
<strong>We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement. </p>
<p>
<strong>Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?</strong></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.</span></p>
</div>
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<p>
<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.</p>
<p>
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.</p>
<p>
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.</p>
<p>
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.</p>
<p>
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis. </p>
<p>
<img alt="ICA Gives Flavours of Openness" height="308" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_classroom(1).jpg" style="margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="595" /></p>
<p>
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>Premium courses of IGNOU:</strong></p>
<p>
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management. </p>
<p>
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.</p>
<p>
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.</p>
<p>
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.</p>
<p>
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development</p>
<p>
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.</p>
<p>
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.</p>
<p>
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.</p>
<p>
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.</p>
<p>
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.</p>
<p>
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.</p>
<p>
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.</p>
<p>
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills. </p>
<p>
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme. </p>
<div>
<hr />
</div>
<p>
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>
<strong>‘We plan to add more programmes’</strong></p>
<div>
<strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img alt="Biswajit Mukherjee, Chairperson / MD ICA" height="315" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_chairperson_biswajit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?</strong></div>
<div>
<p>
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002. </p>
<p>
<strong>What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?</strong></p>
<p>
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then. </p>
<p>
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status? </strong></p>
<p>
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one <span style="font-size: 12px;">to one and a half years.</span></p>
<p>
<strong>Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use? </strong></p>
<p>
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are your faculty? </strong></p>
<p>
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better. </p>
<p>
<strong>What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?</strong></p>
<p>
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are your future plans?</strong></p>
<p>
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit. </p>
<p>
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.</p>
<hr />
<div>
</div>
<p>
<strong>‘Ours is <span style="font-size: 12px;">learner-centric learning process’</span></strong></p>
<p>
<strong><img alt="Amit Giri, CEO, ICA" height="290" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_ceo_amit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How does one study without attending classes?</strong></p>
<p>
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM. </p>
<p>
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory. </p>
<p>
<strong>What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?</strong></p>
<p>
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.</p>
<p>
<strong>Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What is the evaluation mechanism?</strong></p>
<p>
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners. </p>
<p>
<strong>Where are the Term End Exams held?</strong></p>
<p>
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.</p>
<p>
<strong>Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?</strong></p>
<p>
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal</p>
<p>
<strong>We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement. </p>
<p>
<strong>Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?</strong></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.</span></p>
</div>
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<p>
<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.</p>
<p>
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.</p>
<p>
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.</p>
<p>
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.</p>
<p>
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis. </p>
<p>
<img alt="ICA Gives Flavours of Openness" height="308" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_classroom(1).jpg" style="margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="595" /></p>
<p>
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>Premium courses of IGNOU:</strong></p>
<p>
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management. </p>
<p>
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.</p>
<p>
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.</p>
<p>
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.</p>
<p>
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development</p>
<p>
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.</p>
<p>
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.</p>
<p>
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.</p>
<p>
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.</p>
<p>
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.</p>
<p>
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.</p>
<p>
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.</p>
<p>
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills. </p>
<p>
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme. </p>
<div>
<hr />
</div>
<p>
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>
<strong>‘We plan to add more programmes’</strong></p>
<div>
<strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img alt="Biswajit Mukherjee, Chairperson / MD ICA" height="315" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_chairperson_biswajit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?</strong></div>
<div>
<p>
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002. </p>
<p>
<strong>What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?</strong></p>
<p>
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then. </p>
<p>
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status? </strong></p>
<p>
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one <span style="font-size: 12px;">to one and a half years.</span></p>
<p>
<strong>Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use? </strong></p>
<p>
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are your faculty? </strong></p>
<p>
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better. </p>
<p>
<strong>What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?</strong></p>
<p>
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are your future plans?</strong></p>
<p>
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit. </p>
<p>
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.</p>
<hr />
<div>
</div>
<p>
<strong>‘Ours is <span style="font-size: 12px;">learner-centric learning process’</span></strong></p>
<p>
<strong><img alt="Amit Giri, CEO, ICA" height="290" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_ceo_amit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How does one study without attending classes?</strong></p>
<p>
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM. </p>
<p>
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory. </p>
<p>
<strong>What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?</strong></p>
<p>
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.</p>
<p>
<strong>Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What is the evaluation mechanism?</strong></p>
<p>
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners. </p>
<p>
<strong>Where are the Term End Exams held?</strong></p>
<p>
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.</p>
<p>
<strong>Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?</strong></p>
<p>
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal</p>
<p>
<strong>We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement. </p>
<p>
<strong>Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?</strong></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.</span></p>
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<p>
<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.</p>
<p>
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.</p>
<p>
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.</p>
<p>
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.</p>
<p>
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis. </p>
<p>
<img alt="ICA Gives Flavours of Openness" height="308" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_classroom(1).jpg" style="margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="595" /></p>
<p>
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>Premium courses of IGNOU:</strong></p>
<p>
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management. </p>
<p>
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.</p>
<p>
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.</p>
<p>
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.</p>
<p>
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development</p>
<p>
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.</p>
<p>
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.</p>
<p>
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.</p>
<p>
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.</p>
<p>
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.</p>
<p>
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.</p>
<p>
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.</p>
<p>
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills. </p>
<p>
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme. </p>
<div>
<hr />
</div>
<p>
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>
<strong>‘We plan to add more programmes’</strong></p>
<div>
<strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img alt="Biswajit Mukherjee, Chairperson / MD ICA" height="315" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_chairperson_biswajit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?</strong></div>
<div>
<p>
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002. </p>
<p>
<strong>What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?</strong></p>
<p>
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then. </p>
<p>
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status? </strong></p>
<p>
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one <span style="font-size: 12px;">to one and a half years.</span></p>
<p>
<strong>Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use? </strong></p>
<p>
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are your faculty? </strong></p>
<p>
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better. </p>
<p>
<strong>What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?</strong></p>
<p>
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are your future plans?</strong></p>
<p>
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit. </p>
<p>
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.</p>
<hr />
<div>
</div>
<p>
<strong>‘Ours is <span style="font-size: 12px;">learner-centric learning process’</span></strong></p>
<p>
<strong><img alt="Amit Giri, CEO, ICA" height="290" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_ceo_amit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How does one study without attending classes?</strong></p>
<p>
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM. </p>
<p>
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory. </p>
<p>
<strong>What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?</strong></p>
<p>
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.</p>
<p>
<strong>Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What is the evaluation mechanism?</strong></p>
<p>
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners. </p>
<p>
<strong>Where are the Term End Exams held?</strong></p>
<p>
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.</p>
<p>
<strong>Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?</strong></p>
<p>
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal</p>
<p>
<strong>We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement. </p>
<p>
<strong>Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?</strong></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.</span></p>
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<p>
<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.</p>
<p>
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.</p>
<p>
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.</p>
<p>
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.</p>
<p>
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis. </p>
<p>
<img alt="ICA Gives Flavours of Openness" height="308" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_classroom(1).jpg" style="margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="595" /></p>
<p>
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>Premium courses of IGNOU:</strong></p>
<p>
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management. </p>
<p>
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.</p>
<p>
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.</p>
<p>
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.</p>
<p>
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development</p>
<p>
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.</p>
<p>
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.</p>
<p>
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.</p>
<p>
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.</p>
<p>
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.</p>
<p>
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.</p>
<p>
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.</p>
<p>
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills. </p>
<p>
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme. </p>
<div>
<hr />
</div>
<p>
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>
<strong>‘We plan to add more programmes’</strong></p>
<div>
<strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img alt="Biswajit Mukherjee, Chairperson / MD ICA" height="315" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_chairperson_biswajit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?</strong></div>
<div>
<p>
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002. </p>
<p>
<strong>What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?</strong></p>
<p>
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then. </p>
<p>
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status? </strong></p>
<p>
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one <span style="font-size: 12px;">to one and a half years.</span></p>
<p>
<strong>Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use? </strong></p>
<p>
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are your faculty? </strong></p>
<p>
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better. </p>
<p>
<strong>What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?</strong></p>
<p>
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are your future plans?</strong></p>
<p>
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit. </p>
<p>
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.</p>
<hr />
<div>
</div>
<p>
<strong>‘Ours is <span style="font-size: 12px;">learner-centric learning process’</span></strong></p>
<p>
<strong><img alt="Amit Giri, CEO, ICA" height="290" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_ceo_amit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How does one study without attending classes?</strong></p>
<p>
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM. </p>
<p>
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory. </p>
<p>
<strong>What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?</strong></p>
<p>
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.</p>
<p>
<strong>Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What is the evaluation mechanism?</strong></p>
<p>
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners. </p>
<p>
<strong>Where are the Term End Exams held?</strong></p>
<p>
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.</p>
<p>
<strong>Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?</strong></p>
<p>
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal</p>
<p>
<strong>We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement. </p>
<p>
<strong>Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?</strong></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.</span></p>
</div>
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</p>
<p>
<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.</p>
<p>
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.</p>
<p>
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.</p>
<p>
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.</p>
<p>
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis. </p>
<p>
<img alt="ICA Gives Flavours of Openness" height="308" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_classroom(1).jpg" style="margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="595" /></p>
<p>
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>Premium courses of IGNOU:</strong></p>
<p>
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management. </p>
<p>
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.</p>
<p>
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.</p>
<p>
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.</p>
<p>
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development</p>
<p>
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.</p>
<p>
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.</p>
<p>
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.</p>
<p>
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.</p>
<p>
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.</p>
<p>
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.</p>
<p>
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.</p>
<p>
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills. </p>
<p>
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme. </p>
<div>
<hr />
</div>
<p>
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>
<strong>‘We plan to add more programmes’</strong></p>
<div>
<strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img alt="Biswajit Mukherjee, Chairperson / MD ICA" height="315" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_chairperson_biswajit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?</strong></div>
<div>
<p>
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002. </p>
<p>
<strong>What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?</strong></p>
<p>
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then. </p>
<p>
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status? </strong></p>
<p>
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one <span style="font-size: 12px;">to one and a half years.</span></p>
<p>
<strong>Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use? </strong></p>
<p>
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are your faculty? </strong></p>
<p>
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better. </p>
<p>
<strong>What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?</strong></p>
<p>
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are your future plans?</strong></p>
<p>
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit. </p>
<p>
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.</p>
<hr />
<div>
</div>
<p>
<strong>‘Ours is <span style="font-size: 12px;">learner-centric learning process’</span></strong></p>
<p>
<strong><img alt="Amit Giri, CEO, ICA" height="290" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_ceo_amit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How does one study without attending classes?</strong></p>
<p>
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM. </p>
<p>
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory. </p>
<p>
<strong>What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?</strong></p>
<p>
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.</p>
<p>
<strong>Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What is the evaluation mechanism?</strong></p>
<p>
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners. </p>
<p>
<strong>Where are the Term End Exams held?</strong></p>
<p>
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.</p>
<p>
<strong>Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?</strong></p>
<p>
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal</p>
<p>
<strong>We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement. </p>
<p>
<strong>Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?</strong></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.</span></p>
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<p>
<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.</p>
<p>
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.</p>
<p>
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.</p>
<p>
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.</p>
<p>
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis. </p>
<p>
<img alt="ICA Gives Flavours of Openness" height="308" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_classroom(1).jpg" style="margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="595" /></p>
<p>
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>Premium courses of IGNOU:</strong></p>
<p>
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management. </p>
<p>
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.</p>
<p>
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.</p>
<p>
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.</p>
<p>
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development</p>
<p>
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.</p>
<p>
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.</p>
<p>
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.</p>
<p>
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.</p>
<p>
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.</p>
<p>
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.</p>
<p>
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.</p>
<p>
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills. </p>
<p>
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme. </p>
<div>
<hr />
</div>
<p>
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>
<strong>‘We plan to add more programmes’</strong></p>
<div>
<strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img alt="Biswajit Mukherjee, Chairperson / MD ICA" height="315" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_chairperson_biswajit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?</strong></div>
<div>
<p>
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002. </p>
<p>
<strong>What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?</strong></p>
<p>
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then. </p>
<p>
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status? </strong></p>
<p>
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one <span style="font-size: 12px;">to one and a half years.</span></p>
<p>
<strong>Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use? </strong></p>
<p>
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are your faculty? </strong></p>
<p>
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better. </p>
<p>
<strong>What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?</strong></p>
<p>
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are your future plans?</strong></p>
<p>
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit. </p>
<p>
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.</p>
<hr />
<div>
</div>
<p>
<strong>‘Ours is <span style="font-size: 12px;">learner-centric learning process’</span></strong></p>
<p>
<strong><img alt="Amit Giri, CEO, ICA" height="290" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_ceo_amit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How does one study without attending classes?</strong></p>
<p>
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM. </p>
<p>
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory. </p>
<p>
<strong>What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?</strong></p>
<p>
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.</p>
<p>
<strong>Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What is the evaluation mechanism?</strong></p>
<p>
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners. </p>
<p>
<strong>Where are the Term End Exams held?</strong></p>
<p>
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.</p>
<p>
<strong>Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?</strong></p>
<p>
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal</p>
<p>
<strong>We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement. </p>
<p>
<strong>Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?</strong></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.</span></p>
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<p>
<strong>By Bhawani Timilsina</strong></p>
<p>
Young professionals find it difficult to further their academic careers as it requires managing work and study simultaneously. Open universities are gaining huge popularity among such professionals. The International Centre for Academic (ICA) has been helping such young professionals to pursue their academic dreams since its inception in 1997.</p>
<p>
A majority of Nepali students are quite familiar with the idea of working and studying together. However, it is a task easier said than done. Binayak Shrestha was 23 when he felt the need to enhance his academic strength for career growth. But he found it difficult to continue study and work simultaneously. Then a friend suggested him to visit ICA which runs classes for courses offered by Indira Gandhi Open University, (IGNOU). Shrestha completed his degree back in 2008. He shares, “The experience of studying at ICA helped me enhance my academic qualification and build up confidence in a completely open and flexible environment. The advancement in technology supported me and my friends to get quality education while continuing our jobs.</p>
<p>
The revolution in the information and communications technology has brought about a sea change in the teaching and learning system. Universities around the world are making their education ‘open’ to all; technology has made it possible for students to earn degrees without physically attending these universities. Open universities offer openness in selecting courses without the barrier of “prerequisites and essentials.” The demand of open universities has been growing around the world.</p>
<p>
Paridhi Acharya, 26, completed her post graduation from ICA in 2010. What made her select a course of an open university was flexible environment that it provides, especially for those students who want to take work and study side by side. “I am thrilled that I got a degree from such a renowned university and completed my post graduation securing high marks,” says one of the gold medallists of ICA.</p>
<p>
ICA is a partner institution of IGNOU which is one of the most popular educational institutions in India, offering inclusive education to students since its establishment in 1985.Being one of the pioneers in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nepal, ICA has been actively involved in resource development and research and publications related to the ODL system. So far, ICA has helped thousands of students get internationally acclaimed degrees.Students who want flexibility in study are highly attracted by distance–learning programmes, which often rely on pre–prepared study materials instead of lecturers on a daily basis. </p>
<p>
<img alt="ICA Gives Flavours of Openness" height="308" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_classroom(1).jpg" style="margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="595" /></p>
<p>
ICA presently offers 44 different Academic, Value Added and Awareness programmes through ODL mode in Management, Humanities & Social Science, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism and Mass Communication, Education, Rural Development, Health Science, Social Work, Gender and Development Studies, Extension and Development Studies, Continuing Education etc. Currently, the cumulative student strength of ICA is more than 1200. The learners enrolled at ICA are freshers or professionals from diverse fields such as hospitality, financial institutions, telecoms, corporate houses, embassies and diplomatic agencies etc. ICA also offers such programmes in collaboration with government and non government agencies through an arrangement of programme specific Work Centres and a strong network of Learner Support Centres located in different parts of Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>Premium courses of IGNOU:</strong></p>
<p>
MBA/Management Programme aimed at graduates from any stream who may/may not be working but would like to pursue a career in Management. </p>
<p>
MEG aimed at providing learners with a sound base in language as well as exposure to a wide range of literature, with options for specialisation in a particular area. The learners are expected to develop confidence in their critical and analytical abilities.</p>
<p>
MCA aimed at preparing graduate students for productive careers in software industry and academia by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline.</p>
<p>
MARD or MA Programme in Rural Development (MARD) is designed to include such diverse academic contents that are essential in the making of this discipline in the Indian Context. A critical component of this Programme is dissertation based on empirical research in rural areas. The Programme will be useful for personnel working in various Govt. Departments/agencies, NGOs, Cooperatives, Banks and other institutions engaged in rural transformation. It will also be beneficial for fresh graduates interested in pursuing careers in the discipline of rural development.</p>
<p>
PGDJMC or Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication provides opportunities for working media personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills for their professional development</p>
<p>
B. Ed. aimed to systematize experiences and strengthen the professional competency of in-service teachers, to imbibe the knowledge and develop understanding of various methods and approaches of organizing learning experiences of secondary school students, to develop skills required in selection and organizing learning experiences, to understand the nature of the learner and the learning processes, to develop skills required for dealing with the academic and personal problems of learners, etc.</p>
<p>
BCA aimed at opening a channel of admission for computing courses for students, who have done the 10+2 and are interested in taking computing/IT as a career. After acquiring the Bachelor’s Degree (BCA) at IGNOU, there is further educational opportunity to go for an MCA at IGNOU or a Master’s Programme at any other university/institute. Also, after completing BCA Programme, a student should be able to get an entry level job in the field of Information Technology or ITES.</p>
<p>
BTS aimed at providing knowledge, competence, and skills in the professional area of tourism at the Bachelor’s Degree level. This programme, like other Bachelor’s Degree Programmes, can be completed in three years.</p>
<p>
BA or Bachelors Degree Programme which admits students from both formal and non-formal streams. The non-formal stream consists of those students who have not cleared 10+2 or an equivalent exam. To get admitted to IGNOU’s degree programme, they have to pass its Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) first.</p>
<p>
B. Com., in which students without a formal qualification of 10+2 or its equivalent can also seek admission and they can study at their own pace and convenience over a period of three to six years.</p>
<p>
Students also get basic knowledge in the core areas of humanities, social sciences, computers and science & technology as there are some compulsory foundation courses. Besides selective courses in commerce there is flexibility to choose courses from a wide range of other disciplines.</p>
<p>
DCE or Diploma Programme in Creative Writing in English provides understanding, skills and professional knowledge about the art of writing and develops the creative ability of those interested in a professional career as a freelance writer. The curriculum is structured to impart instruction in progressive stages so as to ensure that a learner can assimilate information about a writer’s art and develop his/her creative ability. This Programme includes training in imaginative writing skills in relation to feature articles (women’s issues, book reviews, etc), writing short stories, and scripts for TV/Radio, and writing poetry.</p>
<p>
DTS, which provides the learners with the facility to specialize in the chosen operational areas in tourism studies and helps them acquire the associated skills. </p>
<p>
BPP, which is a Programme offered to those students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of IGNOU but do not have the essential qualification of having passed 10+2. Without such a qualifying certificate, these students are deprived of higher education. To enable such students to enter higher education stream, IGNOU has designed this preparatory programme. </p>
<div>
<hr />
</div>
<p>
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>
<strong>‘We plan to add more programmes’</strong></p>
<div>
<strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img alt="Biswajit Mukherjee, Chairperson / MD ICA" height="315" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_chairperson_biswajit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?</strong></div>
<div>
<p>
ICA was established 16 years ago in 1997. We are associated with IGNOU since 2002. </p>
<p>
<strong>What are milestones of this journey, most memorable moments or developments?</strong></p>
<p>
First, induction meeting for the 1st Batch of 22 learners of IGNOU from Nepal that was held in January 2003 at Dharan. It marked the start of IGNOU’s journey in Nepal. We owe thanks to all the 22 first-batch learners who believed in us though we did not have any official recognition from the government back then. </p>
<p>
IGNOU awarded us the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2010 for the best services at the 22nd Convocation of the university held on April 2, 2011. Recently, we received the Best Overseas Partner Institution 2013 Award for the Best Services from the university at the 26th Convocation held at IGNOU headquarters in New Delhi on April 12, 2013 which was provided by the President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee. Our hard work finally paid off; ICA’s association with IGNOU has grown stronger and stronger. We are now more determined and motivated to providing better services to our learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>You offer both Degree and Diploma education. How do they differ in content and status? </strong></p>
<p>
Degrees are more academic in nature; the curriculum is so structured that the person undergoing the course is provided an overview of several subjects apart from one subject that the person may be interested in exploring further for both career and academic interests. It is of longer duration like 2-3 years. Diplomas focus on getting a person trained and qualified in a particular business or trade. Some of them even include a short stint of apprenticeships and on-the-job training. They are of shorter duration - maximum one <span style="font-size: 12px;">to one and a half years.</span></p>
<p>
<strong>Are these degrees equivalent to those from TU and KU in content, legality and industry recognition?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes all our degrees are equivalent to those from TU, KU and other universities of Nepal. Our centre is also approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. I also take this opportunity to inform our readers that IGNOU degrees have been enjoying global recognition much before they were recognized by Nepal. It is also one of the enlisted universities by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are teaching and evaluating methods, tools and systems you use? </strong></p>
<p>
Yes, we very strictly follow the evaluation tools and methods prescribed by IGNOU and have developed a few of our own systems too which we have implemented with IGNOU’s approval. Such measures have enhanced the quality of evaluation and feedback provided to the learners.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are your faculty? </strong></p>
<p>
Our faculties are the professors/ lecturers/ professionals associated with some of the leading universities or MNC’s of Nepal and India. We try to make sure that we have the best of the best faculties who are competent enough to handle the subject matter through the ODL system. We consider our faculties on a par and, in some cases, even more competent than the faculties of conventional universities or colleges on handling ODL system much better. </p>
<p>
<strong>What recognitions and accreditations does ICA have?</strong></p>
<p>
ICA is approved by the Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal. IGNOU degrees obtained through ICA are recognized by TU and KU. We are also the only member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) from Nepal.</p>
<p>
<strong>What are your future plans?</strong></p>
<p>
We do have some big plans for the future. Now that we have been successful in establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer institutions for Open and Distance Education in Nepal, we plan to add more programmes relevant to our context and society each academic year. We have established Learner Support Centres (LSCs) at four different locations in Nepal and intend to establish more LSC in other parts of the country too so that more and more students from outside the valley can benefit. </p>
<p>
We are now quite seriously thinking to invest more in technology so that we can take education to the door steps of every Nepali. We are trying to establish a research centre in association with IGNOU. It’s been a long-standing request of ours with IGNOU in order to develop skilled human resource required for the ODL system, development of courses appropriate for the Nepali context and contextualization of some of the existing courses.</p>
<hr />
<div>
</div>
<p>
<strong>‘Ours is <span style="font-size: 12px;">learner-centric learning process’</span></strong></p>
<p>
<strong><img alt="Amit Giri, CEO, ICA" height="290" src="http://www.newbusinessage.com/ckfinder/userfiles/Images/business_education_jue2013_ics_ceo_amit.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 0 0;" width="200" />How does one study without attending classes?</strong></p>
<p>
Open and Distance Learning is basically an arrangement which enables a learner to study at the time, place and pace of their choice according to their circumstances and requirements. Hence, attending a class is not an issue. Moreover, the learners after admission receive specially-designed materials called Self Learning Materials (SLM) from the university. The teacher is inbuilt. The learners can comprehend by just going through the SLM. </p>
<p>
To supplement the learner’s understanding of the subject matter, we organise Academic Counselling Sessions on Saturdays where learners get their queries answered and doubts cleared. Attending these sessions is, however, not mandatory. </p>
<p>
<strong>What is the difference between studying at a regular college and at an open university?</strong></p>
<p>
The basic difference is that in a regular college a learner has to attend classes where attendance is mandatory. It is a teacher-centric process for learning. There are restrictions of age, qualifications and physical presence. Costing is rarely done on cost-effective and efficient basis. In an Open University, physical presence is not mandatory. Ours is more learner-centric and provides a more flexible access to education. It is both cost-effective and efficient system for education. Multi-media and multiple methods are widely used.</p>
<p>
<strong>Are the degrees of open universities recognized and accepted by the industry?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes degrees of IGNOU obtained through ICA are recognized in Nepal and globally. A number of our graduates are absorbed in Nepal and abroad. The latest research shows that in countries like the UK, Australia, and the United States, graduates from Open Universities are in demand in the job market. The degrees are recognized and accepted universally. In Canada the degrees of IGNOU are assessed and recognized by the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) and it is one of the universities listed by the United Nations.</p>
<p>
<strong>What is the evaluation mechanism?</strong></p>
<p>
Evaluation of learners is done i) through assignments which carry 30 per cent weight in the final grades of the leaner. ii) On the basis of an examination conducted at the expiry of the minimum duration prescribed for the concerned course called Term End Examination (TEE) which carries 70 per cent weight towards the final grades of the learner. iii) The University may also prescribe courses, specific project works, field work and practical assignments for the learners. </p>
<p>
<strong>Where are the Term End Exams held?</strong></p>
<p>
They are generally held in the month of June and December every year. At present, there are two exam centres in Nepal i) Exam Centre Code: 9601, Biratnagar ii) Exams Centre Code: 9602, Kendriya Vidyalay, on the premises of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. Exams at both centres are conducted under the overall supervision of the Embassy of India. One can also take the exams from centres in 43 countries and through the Indian missions in countries with no IGNOU centres.</p>
<p>
<strong>Why do you at all have entry restrictions in an ‘Open System’?</strong></p>
<p>
The University is concerned about the acceptability of students in society hence they have to ensure equivalence of the degrees/diplomas of IGNOU with that of the conventional universities. So, they have to keep restrictions, e.g. one has to be a 10+2 for joining BA/B.Com/BSc, but that 10+2 need not be with a threshold marks. In other words, restrictions are there but they are minimal</p>
<p>
<strong>We have heard that one can graduate from IGNOU even without the 10+2 education. Is it really possible?</strong></p>
<p>
Yes, if you are 18 or above, you may join our Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP). It is a six- month programme where you have to select any two from three preparatory courses in social sciences, commerce and mathematics. If you qualify, you may join Under Graduate (Besides Science Streams), short-term skill development and value-added programmes and any academic programme of IGNOU for which (10+2) is the minimum educational requirement. </p>
<p>
<strong>Does it mean that BPP is equivalent to 10+2?</strong></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Not at all. It is only an enabling mechanism (bridge course) for joining graduation and some other programmes of IGNOU by those who for some reason or the other had missed the opportunity of completing school or higher education.</span></p>
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How long have been the journey of ICA in Nepal and its association with IGNOU?
How does one study without attending classes?
