Distance/Correspondence

Hi. Yes, Annamalai University distance education course is approved by UGC. Yet the process of approval took a lot of time. In the 2017, UGC came up with a set of protocols for giving distance and open learning programs which were amended in 2018. Under the new set of regulations, a new rule was introduced. A university was required to score a CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) of 3.26 out of 4 in the NAAC assessment. This new rule was mandatory for the university to be able to offer open and distance learning programs. The Annamalai University was awarded A grade accreditation by NAAC for scoring 3.09 out of 4 points. Hence the university then failed by the margin of 0.17. But the university was still allowed to impart distance and open learning programs till academic session 2019-20 since it was awarded A grade. Nearly six of the state universities across the country including Annamalai University, Bharathiar University, and Tamil Nadu University were affected by these rules. On seeking the help of the Higher Education Authority (HEA), the Annamalai University asked the UGC to relax the norms so that universities can continue to run various open and distance education courses. Now the HEA had asked the universities to approach individually to the UGC regarding the matter. The UGC rejected the recognition of Annamalai University for open and distance learning education in 2018. The universities including Annamalai made a plea to UGC seeking exemption from the rule, but the plea was rejected. Consequently, the varsity filed a petition in Madras High Court. The Madras High Court also stayed with the University Grants Commissions regulation, limiting universities from offering open and distance learning programs. The petition was then filed to Supreme Court. Chief Justice PT Asha and Indira Banerjee of the first Division Bench have asked the UGC to respond within three week time. The current Bench was also hearing the case filed by Annamalai University. After a successful hearing the Annamalai University distance education course was UGC approved.