New Delhi, 29 January 2026

The “International Conference on Emerging Trends and Challenges in Open, Distance, Digital and Blended Learning (ODDBL)” kicked off at Vigyan Bhawan, Delhi, India, on 29 January and will run until 31 January 2026. The event was organised by the Department of Distance and Continuing Education, School of Open Learning, Campus of Open Learning University of Delhi, in association with the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and British Council, along with support from Commonwealth of Learning-Commonwealth Educational Media Centre (COL-CEMCA) and International Association of Technology and Management (IATM).

Prof. Payal Mago, Director, Campus of Open Learning, University of Delhi, in her opening remarks, set the tone for the conference. She outlined that the School of Open Learning (SOL) embodies the motto “Sa Vidya Ya Vimuktai” (Knowledge which liberates), empowering students from diverse backgrounds through flexible distance learning. With a focus on accessibility, equity, and inclusivity, she highlighted SOL’s growth from 900 students in 1962 to 4.5 lakh students, offering affordable education and flexible learning options. She stressed that by implementing NEP 2020 principles, SOL transforms distance education, making it more accessible and academically robust.

Shri Ashish Sood, Hon’ble Education Minister, Govt. of NCT of Delhi,  and the chief guest of the conference, emphasised that technology can assist teaching, but meaning comes from lived experience. He highlighted that India’s education journey is guided by Hon’ble PM Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and NEP 2020, focusing on accessibility, equity, and quality. He said that we must address the digital divide, human gap, and AI’s impact on academic integrity, ensuring inclusive and human centric digital education. He called to  co create a global framework for ethical education, guided by “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam- the world is one family”, making knowledge accessible and learning humane.

Prof. Yogesh Singh, Vice Chancellor, University of Delhi, stressed the School of Open Learning (SOL) as a platform for those who couldn’t access traditional education, offering dignity and possibilities. With technology and passionate teachers, he said, SOL is shaping the future of Open, Distance, Digital, and Blended Learning, aligning with NEP 2020’s vision. He called it a moral architecture enabling dreams and leadership.

Dr B. Shadrach, Director, COL-CEMCA, presided over the session on “Quality Concerns in Distance and Digital Learning: Experiences of Different Countries and Institutions” and, in his opening remarks, set the tone for the discussion. He highlighted that quality issues in open and distance learning are multifaceted, encompassing academic and pedagogical integration, technical infrastructure, student support, and faculty readiness. He stressed that by taking ownership of pedagogical weaknesses, enhancing interactivity, and partnering with industry, we can produce employable, future-ready graduates and address issues of disability and social disadvantage.

 Dr. Tony Mays, Director-Education, Commonwealth of Learning (COL), in his keynote address, emphasised that Quality assurance in open and distance learning is contextual and collaborative, not just about standards and checklists. He stressed closing the quality feedback loop at the program level, addressing institutional inhibitors, and working with national and international partners to create a culture of continuous improvement, not just compliance.

The conference was attended by dignitaries, including Prof. Ajay Jaiswal, Principal, School of Open Learning, University of Delhi, Prof. Ghanta Chakrapani, Vice-Chancellor, Dr. B.R Ambedkar Open University, Prof. Ganeshan Kannabiran, Director, National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), Prof. Linda Amrane-Cooper, Director, Centre for Online and Distance Education, (CODE, UK), Dr. Torunn Gjelsvik, Secretary General, ICDE, Prof. Ganesan Kannabiran, Director, NAAC and many others.