UGC de-recognises Karnataka State Open University

Bengaluru, Jun 18: University Grants Commission has de-recognised the Karnataka State Open University (KSOU), Mysore, for offering programmes through distance learning mode by "blatantly flouting the norms".

KSOU, in collaboration with private institutions/ entities/coaching centres spread all over the country and even abroad, has been offering programmes through distance learning mode by blatantly flouting the norms, guidelines and directives of UGC and erstwhile Distance Education Council (DEC) of Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi, UGC's public notice said.

The June 16 notice said that taking cognisance of this fact, the programmes offered by KSOU, Mysore had not been recognised by UGC beyond 2012-13.

This has been done after issue of a show cause notice to them on June 10, 2011 and after considering their response including personal hearing of the officials of the University.

The university remained undeterred and continued to offer programmes through distance learning mode in violation of the UGC policy on territorial jurisdiction vide UGC public notice dated 27th June, 2013, the notice said.

It has also been offering professional/technical programmes in violation of the norms of the concerned regulatory bodies and without their approval.

The university has also started offering online programmes, which are not recognised by UGC, as an exclusive method of distance education, it added.

The Karnataka State Open University established in June 1996 is considered to be a reputed Open University amongst the open learning institutions in the country.