Higher Education in a Changing World: An Appraisal of the Indian ODL System

In a country of India s magnitude and diversity, the conventional system alone cannot meet the needs and demands of higher education. To meet these demands, the open and distance learning (ODL) system was introduced as an alternative system by providing flexible educational opportunities to large segments of the Indian population. This paper outlines the changing landscape of higher education in general, giving specific reference to India. Against that backdrop, the author reviews the accomplishments of the Indian ODL system in meeting the challenges confronting higher education. Finally, some of the major issues afflicting the ODL system are critically examined.