Jammu’s First IGNOU Science-Focused Learner Support Centre Inaugurated at GGM Science College
Jammu, July 22, 2025 – In a landmark move to enhance access to quality higher education, Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Higher Education, Shantmanu, inaugurated the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Learner Support Centre (LSC-12133) at Government Gandhi Memorial (GGM) Science College, Jammu. This centre, the first of its kind in the Jammu division dedicated exclusively to science programs, offers Bachelor of Science (BSCM) and Master of Science in Zoology (MSCZOO) courses, marking a significant step toward flexible and inclusive education.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Professor Romesh Gupta, Principal of GGM Science College; Dr. Sandeep Gupta, Regional Director of IGNOU Regional Centre Jammu; Assistant Regional Directors Dr. Asha Upadhyay, Dr. Vikram Singh, and Dr. Zeba; Deputy Registrar S. Tejinder Pal Singh; Assistant Registrar Dara Singh; and Dr. P. S. Thakur, Coordinator of the new Learner Support Centre. The establishment of the centre was approved by IGNOU Vice Chancellor Professor Uma Kanjilal, following recommendations from the Sub-Committee of Student Support Centre in its 9th meeting on May 7, 2025.
Speaking at the event, ACS Shantmanu emphasized the importance of accessible education in today’s dynamic academic landscape, stating, “The Department of Higher Education is committed to strengthening the teaching-learning ecosystem across all institutions in the Union Territory. This centre reflects our learner-centric approach to empower students from all walks of life.” He pledged full support from the Higher Education Department to expand IGNOU’s Learner Support Network in the region.
Professor Romesh Gupta hailed the initiative, noting, “This IGNOU centre will open new avenues for our students and the wider community, enhancing academic engagement through services like counselling, tutorials, and examination support.” Dr. Sandeep Gupta highlighted IGNOU’s broader mission, adding, “This collaboration with GGM Science College reinforces our commitment to bringing quality distance education closer to learners, making it more accessible and inclusive.”
The new Learner Support Centre aims to serve as a vital academic and administrative hub for IGNOU learners across the Jammu region, offering specialized support for science programs. With a focus on BSCM and MSCZOO, the centre is poised to foster scientific temper and provide flexible learning opportunities, aligning with IGNOU’s mission of inclusive and lifelong education.
This initiative is expected to benefit students in Jammu and surrounding areas by providing access to high-quality science education through IGNOU’s renowned open and distance learning framework. Posts on X have celebrated the development, calling it a transformative step for higher education in the region.
For more information on admissions and programs, visit IGNOU’s official portal. The last date to apply for the July 2025 academic session is July 31, 2025.