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Journalism of Courage
The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has introduced two new micro-credential courses in collaboration with the Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, a German development agency that provides services for international cooperation to promote sustainable development. The announcement was made during IGNOU’s 40th Foundation Day event held at the University headquarters.
The launch took place in the presence of Prof Peter Scott, President and CEO of the Commonwealth of Learning (COL), Prof Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor, IGNOU, and senior representatives from GIZ.
The two micro-credentials – ‘Unpacking AI’: Practical Foundations for Non-Tech Students and ‘Unpacking Data’: Practical Foundations for Non-Tech Students—have been co-developed by IGNOU and GIZ to strengthen basic digital literacy and analytical understanding among learners.
According to an official statement, both courses will become available on the SWAYAM platform from January 2026 and are intended to support youth, working professionals, and lifelong learners who seek to understand applied concepts in artificial intelligence and data without prior technical backgrounds.
The programmes aim to introduce participants to essential concepts, tools, and applications that are increasingly becoming part of everyday professional environments. IGNOU noted that the initiative is aligned with the expanding need for foundational digital competencies across multiple sectors.
Speaking at the event, Prof Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor, IGNOU said the new micro-credentials “reflect our vision to create learning pathways that are flexible, relevant, and aligned with the future of work.” She added that the collaboration brings in global expertise that strengthens the university’s efforts to build capacity in emerging areas.
Representatives from GIZ also highlighted the importance of enabling non-technical learners to access structured digital learning that supports participation in a technology-focused economy.
IGNOU has been expanding its portfolio of skill-based and technology-enabled programmes through partnerships with national and international organisations. The collaboration with GIZ, according to the university, is intended to further strengthen efforts to create accessible training opportunities for diverse learner groups across India.
Both micro-credentials form part of IGNOU’s ongoing strategy to introduce modular, outcome-based learning formats that can be stacked or used independently for career advancement.
