IGNOU awards over 3.24 lakh degrees at 39th convocation; VP hails role in higher education

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) held its 39th convocation on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. The event was graced by the Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan as the chief guest.

The ceremony took place at the Baba Sahib Ambedkar Convention Centre in Maidan Garhi, where more than 3.24 lakh students were awarded degrees, diplomas and certificates. Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu was present as the guest of honour.

Speaking at the event, the Vice President underlined IGNOU’s role in widening access to education. He said, "IGNOU's journey since 1985 has been truly remarkable. It has extended learning opportunities to all sections, including working individuals, students in remote and rural areas, financially disadvantaged learners, and women," as per PTI report. He also added, “an institution that has played a transformative role in expanding higher education in the country".

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Highlighting that women accounted for 58 per cent of the graduates at the ceremony, he described it as “a great achievement.”

IGNOU 39th convocation: Over 3.24 lakh students awarded degrees

At the convocation, IGNOU awarded degrees, diplomas and certificates to over 3.24 lakh learners from across India and abroad. The Vice President also presented PhD degrees and gold medals to top-performing students.

Several dignitaries joined the event virtually, including Goa Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Tripura Governor Indra Sena Reddy Nallu, and Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Prem Chand Bairwa.

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IGNOU and technology: AI seen as a key enabler

Emphasising the role of technology in education, the Vice President said tools like Artificial Intelligence can improve learning experiences, strengthen student support, and enable more personalised education.

He added that IGNOU’s wide network of regional centres and its diverse online programmes have helped take distance education closer to people, while also contributing to national integration.