Extraordinary Education for Ordinary People

Abstract

Extraordinary Education for Ordinary People, NETAJI SUBHAS WEST BENGAL OPEN UNIVERSITY, Endowment Lecture 15 April 2005 by: Sir John Daniel, President & CEO, Commonwealth of Learning // My title today is Extraordinary Education for Ordinary People. Netaji Subhas Open University leading a revolutionary modern trend in education. My aim today is to put that revolution in context and to explain the significance of what this University is doing. // Globalisation is the best word to describe the wider developments that have created the context for Netaji Subhas Open University to thrive. I pronounce the word with hesitation, because it resonates with both negative and positive echoes. Globalisation is a new word, but it designates a phenomenon that is not new, namely the exchange of ideas, products, services and technology across the world. I shall draw your attention particularly to movements of ideas and technology. // As the world has grown smaller through easier travel and faster communication, ideas from many sources have flowed together and blended into new syntheses. Among them are some of the core values from the great religions of the world. Open universities emerged from the blend of two core values: the importance of education and the importance of the individual.