Role of Open Distance Learning in Social Empowerment: A Case Study of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University

Abstract

Education is an agent of social change and social empowerment. It has been mainly instrumental for the development of science and technology. It has brought about phenomenal changes in every aspect of human life. Education can initiate social changes by bringing about a change in the outlook and attitude of man. It brings about a change in the pattern of social relationships and thereby it may lead to social transformation. Social empowerment is a process by which people reclaim their power, the power to shape their own lives and to influence the course of events around them. They use their power against oppression and exclusion, and for participation, peace and human rights. Education enables people to become not only economically independent but also autonomous and decision-oriented. Open universities and distance education institutions are able to democratize higher education by taking education to the large numbers, particularly the poor and needy at an affordable cost.