CUKashmir delivers 15th Prof. G. Ram Reddy memorial lecture
06/11/2026
Srinagar, November 05 (KIP)-Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool, delivered the 15th Prof. G. Ram Reddy Memorial Lecture at the University of Kashmir here on Thursday. The lecture on “From Distance to Digital: Reimagining ODL in the Age of AI”, was organised by the Indian Distance Education Association (IDEA) in collaboration with the Centre for Distance Education, University of Kashmir, as part of its Golden Jubilee celebrations.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Shahid Rasool highlighted the role of technology in improving Open and Distance Learning (ODL). He said digital technology had brought conventional universities and ODL institutions closer, and that the difference between the two modes of education is fast disappearing. The two modes are in fact converging.
He said this change was being driven by advances in technology, a generation of students comfortable with digital tools, and the changing needs of the job market. The important question, he observed, was no longer whether education should be offered through conventional or distance modes, but how these modes could be combined to provide better learning opportunities.
Prof. Shahid Rasool said ODL should not be seen only as an option for those unable to attend conventional universities. “It has become an important part of an inclusive, flexible and technology-enabled education system, offering lifelong learning opportunities.” He added that digital technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) were changing teaching, learning and assessment in higher education.
He urged universities to understand these changes and design programmes according to students’ needs and industry requirements. He also stressed that ODL must be made more affordable and accessible, particularly for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
To reduce the digital divide, Prof. Shahid Rasool suggested that institutions invest in end-user devices such as laptops and tablets and make them available to students who cannot afford them. He also called for financial support to such students to meet internet data costs. Such steps, he said, could help bridge the gap between those with access to technology and those without it.
Referring to AI, he said it was a reality that educational institutions could not ignore. Instead, they should use it positively and turn Artificial Intelligence into “Intelligence Assistance” to support teaching and learning. He cautioned that teachers who develop sound technology skills would be better prepared for the future, while those unwilling to adapt could find it difficult to keep pace.
Referring to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and its provision for 360-degree assessment of students, he called for greater use of technology and AI to develop transparent and verifiable assessment methods to replace or supplement the existing paper and pen exams. Such methods, he said, should assess students fairly and provide a clearer picture of their learning abilities.
He said the future of ODL would depend on meaningful use of technology, affordable access and attention to learners’ changing needs. “This approach can help institutions reach more learners effectively.” Senior faculty members, researchers and scholars from various parts of the country attended the event.