The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) conducted its 39th convocation ceremony on Tuesday in New Delhi, where degrees were awarded to over 324,000 students from various programs. The event was graced by Vice President C P Radhakrishnan as the chief guest, with Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, serving as the guest of honour.

This convocation was notable for its extensive reach, with degree conferrals occurring simultaneously at regional centers throughout the country, marking it as one of the largest ceremonies organized by the university. During the event, the Vice President and other distinguished guests presented PhD degrees and gold medals to outstanding students. Academic officials, faculty, and students participated in the celebrations held at multiple locations.

In conjunction with the convocation, IGNOU introduced several initiatives to enhance its digital presence and alumni relations. Seventeen Swayam Prabha studios were inaugurated at various regional centers to boost the production of educational materials, particularly benefiting learners in more remote regions.

The Vice President also unveiled the IGNOU Profile 2026 and a new alumni portal aimed at fostering connections among the university’s vast alumni network, which exceeds 5.3 million members, facilitating ongoing interaction and collaboration with the institution.

In his address, the Vice President emphasized the university’s pivotal role in broadening educational access. He remarked, “IGNOU has significantly contributed to education, social upliftment, and the overall development of the nation.” He further noted the institution’s evolution, stating, “IGNOU is no longer merely a ‘Distance Learning System’; it has transformed into a ‘Closest Learning System’.”

The convocation celebrated the achievements of countless students who have completed their academic programs through the distance and open learning courses provided by IGNOU across India.