The Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), University of Kashmir (KU) hosted a memorable interactive event titled “Meet the Eminence” at the University’s Main Campus.

The highlight of the programme was a fascinating session with Prof. M. Aslam, former Vice-Chancellor of IGNOU and an academician of international repute, who walked the audience through his remarkable 47-year odyssey in higher education and distance learning.
His presentation, “My Professional Journey – A Coffee Table Presentation”, blended personal anecdotes with institutional milestones, leaving students and faculty both informed and inspired.
A trailblazer in distance learning and recipient of the prestigious Commonwealth of Learning President’s Award of Excellence (1999) and several other honours, Prof. Aslam reflected on landmark achievements during his IGNOU tenure such as raising the gross enrolment ratio to 7.22 lakh learners,training thousands of teachers across India, reducing student dropouts, and clearing a massive backlog of study materials in record time.
He also spotlighted his contributions to grassroots education initiatives, the development of teacher training manuals, and his acclaimed book “Panchayati Raj in India”.
Beyond statistics and reforms, Prof. Aslam shared deeply moving stories from his career. One that resonated strongly with the audience was of a differently-abled IGNOU student, who, despite immense challenges, completed her degree and earned the Grover Cash Award — a tale underscoring the transformative power of distance education.
The event began with a welcome address by Prof. Tariq Ahmad Chishti, Director of CDOE, who introduced the distinguished guests: Prof. Afzal Qadri, Prof. Zohra Afzal, Prof. Z. G. Mohammad, Prof. Irshad Ahmad Peerzada, Mr. Nisar Gilani, and Prof. Mohammad Shafi.
The programme concluded with a lively interactive session, where students, research scholars, and faculty members engaged with Prof. Aslam, applauding his vision, dedication, and lifelong service to the cause of open and distance learning.