Hyderabad : National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), Bengaluru in collaborations Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU), inaugurated Two-day workshop on “Consultative Workshop for Directors of Online Education and CIQA/IQAC” on Wednesday at the campus. Vice Chancellor Prof. Ghanta Chakrapani, presided the inaugural session, reiterating the University’s commitment to the vision of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar for inclusive and accessible education.
He emphasized several recent digital initiatives undertaken by BRAOU, including the rapid development of a Learning Management System (LMS), establishment of a web-based television station, and launch of web radio services (HiBRO), promotion of e-books through open platforms, digitization of library services, and the development of micro-credential courses. These initiatives, he noted, are part of the University’s larger goal of emerging as a digital hub for ODL institutions. Prof. Chakrapani also underscored the importance of collaboration with the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) and CEMCA for strengthening capacity building, digital learning practices, and institutional resilience.
Prof. V. S. Prasad, Former Director, NAAC & Former VC, BRAOU attended as chief guest for the inaugural session of the workshop, emphasized that the primary responsibility for ensuring and sustaining quality in higher education must rest with the institutions themselves. Regulatory and accreditation bodies should therefore adopt a supportive and facilitative approach by providing flexible, context-sensitive, and non-prescriptive quality frameworks that encourage innovation and institutional growth rather than mere compliance.
Prof Prasad highlighted the need to design Quality Assurance (QA) systems that promote continuous self-improvement, adaptability, reflective practices, and institutional autonomy. Prof Prasad stated that the importance of preserving integrity, credibility, and trust in accreditation and assessment processes by institutionalizing transparent, ethical, and participatory practices. This includes clarity in procedures, evidence-based evaluation, stakeholder engagement, openness in decision-making, and adherence to academic and professional standards throughout the quality assurance and accreditation cycle.
The Distinguished guests Prof. Ganesan Kannabiran, Director, NAAC, Bengaluru said that NAAC beyond conventional accreditation processes, with increasing emphasis on research, innovation, and institutional capacity building to strengthen quality assurance practices in higher education. Prof. Kannabiran stated that the primary objective of the workshop is to enhance the capacity of participating institutions in designing, implementing, and sustaining robust quality assurance frameworks for online education. The deliberations and expert interactions during the workshop are also expected to contribute towards the development of a comprehensive handbook and online programmes in 8 month project where participant Universities will be part of Project.
Dr. B. Shadrach, Director, CEMCA, New Delhi said the perspective of the Commonwealth Educational Media Centre for Asia (CEMCA), a regional centre of the Commonwealth of Learning (COL). He highlighted the core focus areas of COL and CEMCA, which include policy advocacy, institutional capacity strengthening, promotion of learner engagement, and the advancement of technology-enabled education systems. He stressed that institutions must strive to maintain an effective balance between quantity, quality, and relevance in the emerging era of digital transformation and AI-driven education systems.
यह भी पढ़ें-
Dr. B. S. Ponmudiraj Raj, NAAC, highlighted the significance of collaborative learning and institutional networking in strengthening quality assurance and digital transformation in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online Education. Prof Uma Kanjilal, VC, IGNOU, Ms Brita, South Africa, Ms.Maria, South Africa, Prof. Pushpa Chakrapani, Director, Academic, BRAOU participating in the Workshop. Total participants – 59 from all over country participating in Two Day Workshop. Prof Rabindranath Solomon, Director, CIQA, BRAOU proposed formal vote of thanks for inaugural session.
