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Defying University Grants Commission’s (UGC) directive, Anna University, Chennai continues to offer distance education programmes without getting approval from the apex regulatory body. The university is also offering a post graduate course through online programme which is banned by the apex body.In a recent public notice, UGC Secretary Jaspal Singh Sandhu has reiterated that the qualification acquired through ODL (Open and Distance Learning) mode from a non-recognised institutions of higher learning shall neither be recognized for the purpose of employment in government service nor for pursuing higher education.The UGC has uploaded in its website the list of recognized institutions, along with courses, which are permitted to offer programmes through ODL mode. According to the list, there are 212 universities across the country including 27 from Tamil Nadu.But Anna University, Chennai continues to offer distance education programme without UGC recognition.The UGC also mandates that no online programme leading to the award of degree or certification shall be offered by a university or institution until a policy is framed and approved by UGC. But Anna University is also offering a post graduate programme in Computer Science (MSc (CS) FOSS) through the online mode.When contacted, Anna University Vice Chancellor M Rajaram said, We will check the UGC circular and follow its norms.University’s Centre for Distance Education Director SN Geetha said, We have started offering distance education programmes from 2007. We have also applied to the then Distance Education Council in 2009 for approval. Two years ago, DEC was dissolved and its functions were taken over by the UGC. We are waiting for the UGC’s Distance Education Bureau’s inspection.She added that we have all essential facilities for offering the distance education programmes. We are only continuing those programmes which were begun earlier. Even though we planned to start an MBA programme through online mode, we have decided not to start it now. source: newindianexpress.com