Integration and Use of technology for improving access, equity and quality higher education and to achieve global standards is one of the key recommendations of the New Education Policy of 2020. The NAAC guidelines developed for Open Distance Learning also has stressed the importance of IT infrastructure for Open Universities since Open Universities follow Multi Media approach to Teaching – Learning.
With the rapid developments in Internet technologies online education has become the order of the day. The Pandemic situation created by COVID 19 also necessitated the wide spread attention to e-learning, MOOCs and online learning technologies. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Open University a pioneer in Distance Education has initiated steps in the direction of introducing e-learning programmes in the University. University has initiated steps to identify the relevant programs offered through Swayam and also to offer courses through the Swayam platform. Apart from this, the University has taken up a Project in collaboration with Commonwealth of Learning to offer two Massive Online Open Courses on – Gender Sensitization and Stress Management. Many More courses in different subjects are being planned to be introduced through the University Learning Management System.

Dr.B.R.Ambedkar Open University, with its rich experience of over 35 years in multi media approach to teaching-learning, is now poised to venture into online learning. Development of MOOCs is a creative activity that involves preparation of E-Content; E-Tutorials; Providing Forum for Synchronous and Asynchronous Discussion and Quiz and activities to facilitate student engagement and active participation. MOOCs also facilitate inclusive education and as it is also possible offer bi-lingual or multi-lingual programs in order to reduce the disparities which is one of the important recommendations of Sustainable Development Goals for Education.

In order to facilitate the launching of MOOCs and to support digital initiatives of the University, it is proposed to set up a Centre for Online Learning for Dr.B.R.Ambedkar Open University. The centre will be equipped with state of the art technologies to support e-learning activities of the university. Centre for Online Learning will endeavor to make make Dr.BRAOU a leader in online learning with world class technology to enhance and enrich learning experience of the students. The setting up of this Centre also aligns with the national digital initiatives to provide affordable and quality education for anyone anywhere and anytime access.