Uma Kanjilal: Pioneering Change as IGNOU's First Female Vice Chancellor

Uma Kanjilal has made history by becoming the first female Vice Chancellor of Indira Gandhi National Open University, where she has served in leadership positions since 2021. With expertise in e-learning and digital libraries, Kanjilal is recognized for her efforts to expand IGNOU’s digital infrastructure and online education.

In a groundbreaking appointment, Uma Kanjilal has become the first woman to hold the position of Vice Chancellor at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), according to officials from the education ministry.

With over 36 years of dedicated service in the Open and Distance Learning system, Kanjilal is renowned for her significant contributions in academic leadership, digital innovation, and institutional development at one of the world's largest open universities. Previously, she served as Pro Vice Chancellor at IGNOU from March 2021 to July 2024.

Among her many accolades and past roles, Kanjilal is notably recognized for her expertise in e-learning, ICT in libraries, digital libraries, and multimedia courseware development, making her a leading national figure in these fields. She also serves as the National Coordinator for digital education initiatives SWAYAM and SWAYAM PRABHA under the Ministry of Education.

(With inputs from agencies.)