By Hamid Khan Wazir
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) has designed a time-duration policy for the educational programs offered through open distance learning mode (ODL).
This policy will be effective from the Spring 2020 Semester and it would be applicable to the students seeking fresh admission in this Semester.
According to the details issued here on Friday, the minimum duration for the completion of matriculation and intermediate programs is two years (4 semesters) while the maximum duration would be five years.
On the other hand, the minimum duration for all post-graduate diplomas is one year (2 semesters) and the maximum duration is three years.
Similarly, the maximum duration for B Ed (1.5 years) is three years and for B Ed (2.5 years) is five years. For 4 years programs including BS/ BBA and B Ed, the maximum duration is eight years.
Likewise, the maximum duration for M Ed is three years and for all master’s programs is four years.
Moreover, students failing to earn their certificates, diplomas and degrees within the maximum time limit will be required to take readmission.
It is pertinent to mention here that no such definite policy about the time duration of educational programs was implemented in the university previously which created many academic and administrative complications.
However, Professor Dr. Zia Ul –Qayyum, after assuming the charge of his office, not only greatly improved the infrastructure of the university but has also taken key measures to streamline university rules and regulations pertaining to educational programs.
