Mysuru-based KSOU stands out among State open universities by offering the widest range of courses under Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode in India.
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Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) has added another feather to its cap. After securing an A+ grade accreditation from NAAC in 2022-23, the university has now been ranked 2nd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 in the Open University category, awarded by the Department of Higher Education, Government of India.
The NIRF certificate was received on behalf of the university by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sharanappa V. Halase in New Delhi on September 4 during the release of India rankings of NIRF. The VC was accompanied by Registrar S.K. Naveen Kumar and Prof. Niranjan Raj S., Director of the Centre for Internal Quality Assurance (CIQA).
Earlier, KSOU had obtained an A+ grade with 3.31 CGPA in NAAC accreditation two years ago, becoming the only university in Karnataka to achieve this distinction in that year. The NAAC accreditation, valid for five years from May 19, 2023, was approved by the Standing Committee of the Executive Committee of NAAC.
KSOU is also notable for being the second among 16 open universities in India to earn NAAC recognition. KSOU stands out among State open universities by offering the widest range of courses under Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode in the country.
Vice-Chancellor Sharanappa V. Halse stated that the university currently has over 1.5 lakh students enrolled across various courses. The enrolment during the January cycle, which earlier stood at around 5,000 students, has in recent years surged to more than 18,000.
It has so far secured approval from the UGC-DEB for 47 courses, which are said to be the highest number of approvals given for any open university in India. It has also obtained UGC recognition for 10 fully online courses to expand its reach and ensure flexibility in learning.
The KSOU has introduced new programmes in Data Science, Earth Science, Life Sciences, and skill development, and launched the Centre for Future Skills (CFS) in collaboration with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) to lay emphasis on nine major technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, cyber security, data analytics, IoT, AR/VR, and semiconductor design.
Published – September 05, 2025 04:42 pm IST
