IGNOU launches certificate course in healthcare waste management; eligibility, duration

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has launched a new certificate programme in health care waste management (CHCWM) in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO), South-East Asia Region.

The course is developed with the context of the Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016 (amended in 2018 and 2019) and WHO’s “Safe Management of Wastes from Health-Care Activities” rules, (2014). It aims to equip the learners with better waste handling practices to prevent health hazards and protect communities and the environment.

According to a statement, the CHCWM programme has been endorsed by the central and state governments, who sponsor health workers in this programme to be trained as “master trainers”.

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IGNOU waste management course: Eligibility, duration

Professionals and paraprofessionals who work in healthcare facilities, sanitation services, and waste management sectors, and have passed Class 12 or equivalent examinations are eligible to apply. The certificate course has a flexible time range – from six months to two years.

Those interested candidates can apply on the IGNOU Samarth portal - ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in for the July 2025 admission cycle.

The new certificate course in health waste management will follow a blended learning mode, which will include self-instructional materials (SIM), live web conferencing, video classes, and question-and-answer (Q&A) forums. Students will be provided access to a “dedicated online platform” which will help them make the most of the CHCWM programme.

IGNOU certificate programme: Electives

In addition to mandatory theory courses, students will have the option to choose between a workshop or a project, which will “give the programme a practical edge”.

“This will ensure that learners get real-world experience in managing biomedical waste in accordance with national and international guidelines,” an official statement said.

Students will be awarded the certificate after the submission of due assignments and term-end examinations.

The objective of the programme are:

• To create awareness on the types and impacts of health care waste.
• To familiarise learners with current legislation, infection control norms, and practices across the South-East Asia region.
• To build practical skills for the safe and effective handling and disposal of such waste.