Srinagar, November 19, 2025: The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Regional Centre Srinagar today celebrated the 40th Foundation Day of the University at the Auditorium Hall of S.P. College Srinagar. The main Foundation Day function was held at IGNOU Headquarters, New Delhi.
The programme in Srinagar was attended by officials of the Regional Centre, principals and faculty members of leading colleges, coordinators and counsellors of IGNOU study centres, students, and former Regional Directors. Among the dignitaries present were Prof. Bashir Ahmad Sheikh, Principal S.P. College; Prof. Yasmeena Farooq, Principal Women’s College Srinagar; and Prof. Gulam Mohd, Vice Principal A.S. College Srinagar. Shri Saurab Bhagat, IAS, Commissioner Secretary to Government, was the Chief Guest.
In his welcome address Prof. John Mohd, Assistant Coordinator, Study Centre 1209 (S.P. College), highlighted the major achievements of IGNOU and its role in widening access to higher education, particularly in the far flung regions of Kashmir and Ladakh. Coordinators of Study Centres SC-1209 and SC-30039, Prof. Waheed Iqbal and Prof. Mustafa Majid Sheikh, shared their experiences and spoke about rising enrolment, improved support services, and IGNOU’s impact on community learning.
Shri Saurabh Bhagat appreciated the quality of IGNOU study materials and encouraged students especially competitive examination aspirants to rely on them. He lauded the Regional Centre Srinagar for consistently maintaining high enrolment numbers and strengthening distance education in the region.
Speaking on the occasion, Regional Director Dr. A.H. Rizvi reiterated IGNOU’s mission of providing inclusive and accessible education. He acknowledged the contributions of coordinators, counsellors and staff in maintaining strong student support services and urged learners to study IGNOU materials thoroughly and contribute meaningfully to the progress of the nation. Dr. Rizvi thanked the Chief Guest, the principals of participating colleges, and the S.P. College administration for their support in organising the Foundation Day programme.
The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Abdullah, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries and participants.