Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Goa, have announced a strategic partnership with Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), Regional Centre Panaji, to expand higher-education opportunities for students with disabilities through distance learning.
The initiative aims to support students who completed Class 12 but were unable to pursue further studies due to personal, financial, health-related, or accessibility challenges. Under the tie-up, eligible students will receive guidance to enrol in IGNOU’s certificate, diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate programmes, enabling them to continue their education from home. IGNOU officials will also conduct special orientation sessions to help candidates understand programme options and the enrolment process.
State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Shri Guruprasad Pawaskar, said the collaboration marks a significant step toward inclusive education in Goa.
“This partnership with IGNOU is an important step towards making higher education inclusive and accessible for every person with disability in Goa. Many students discontinued their education after Class 12 on account of difficulties beyond their control. With this initiative, they will get a fresh chance to continue their education, achieve their goals, and build meaningful careers. Our office will guide every eligible student and support them through the necessary procedures, and eligible students can avail the scholarship of the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities,” he said.
