Distance Education is as effective as traditional form of learning With one of the largest higher education systems in the world,

Indias education system has witnessed exponential growth in the last decade. However, the system itself is grappling with a number of challenges related to expansion, excellence and equity. Consider this, accredited institutions which comprise 62% of universities and 90% of colleges reported to be average or below average in 2010, (NAAC accreditation). Honourable President, Mr Pranab Mukherjee has also stressed on the need for a dynamic higher education system which meets the evolving needs of global standards. While India faces innumerable challenges in the education sector and the challenge of re-skilling workforce also looming large, the only solution seems to be open and distance education programs. Studies have even proved that multi-channel learning is more efficient and effective when compared to conventional learning techniques. Improved Technology for Education Delivery: Crucial Factor to Reshape Indias Future Dual mode universities which offer correspondence or distance learning options are serving needs of over one and half million students in India today. As they are offered throughout the country, they have the potential to transcend barriers of space and time, and by leveraging technology, a number of institutes such as SMU-DE have enhanced the teaching-learning experience for better outcomes. In fact, the universitys education-industry relevant EduNxt platform won the prestigious ICT award among other recognitions over the years. Distance education is democratising education system in India by taking knowledge to every doorstep.

Creating an Employable Talent Pool through Distance Education With the government enabling robust implementation, monitoring and quality assurance mechanisms in the education sector, and development of distance education platforms which are relevant to the needs of the society, the country is sure to increase employability of the population. SMU-DEs precedence of innovation in the distance education arena knows no bounds as it has also added employment assistance to its growing list of support initiatives for aspiring students.