The global education development agenda encapsulated in Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG-4) is a resolute commitment to ensuring inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education, along with lifelong learning opportunities for all by the year 2030. Aligned with the principles of SDG-4, our country's education system is undergoing a profound transformation through the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020). NEP 2020 is committed to improve GER in Higher Education up to 50% by the year 2035, necessitating a pivotal role for Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online Learning. Beyond this educational renaissance, the swift evolution of Information and Communication Technologies and advancements in Artificial Intelligence Systems have expanded the horizons of ODL and Online Learning. These technologies have elevated these modes of education to a central position within the Higher Education System, marking an unprecedented shift in paradigms. Moreover, the pursuit of Inclusive Growth demands a corresponding commitment to Inclusive Higher Education. Recognizing the nuances of exclusion entrenched in higher education, NEP 2020 mentions that ‘There are certain facets of exclusion, that are particular to or substantially more intense in higher education’ and committed to demolish barriers in the way of educational inclusion. It identifies a pressing need to extend educational opportunities to individuals belonging to SEDG including 'Divyangjan' through Open and Distance Learning and Online Learning, with the explicit goal of integrating Socio-Economic Disadvantaged Groups into the mainstream higher education. Committed to providing lifelong learning opportunities, Centre for Distance and Online Learning (CDOE) embraces ODL and Online Learning, extending its reach to all learners, including those from Socio-Economic Disadvantaged Groups (SEDGs). This commitment, in turn, propels the realization of the visionary dream of Inclusive Higher Education for all, as outlined in NEP 2020. Faculty members across various departments at Tezpur University are unwavering in their dedication, tirelessly working to craft innovative, need-based, cutting-edge programs to be delivered through ODL and Online Learning modes. Under the able guidance and visionary leadership of the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of Tezpur University and through the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, CDOE-TU aspires to excellence and to be a world-class centre for distance and online education.

Dr. Akhilesh Kumar
Director