The Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), previously known as Pune University, is launching its e-learning content and digital classrooms today, reports Indian Express. According to the report, infrastructure will include an interactive whiteboard, a digital podium, Android TV with a touchscreen and internet, document cameras to project live experiments and 3D diagrams. The e-learning program is a part of 9 other projects from 9 different states, but it is not clear as to what these projects are or when they'll be launched. E-content modules have been developed within the SPPU's E-content Learning and Innovation Centre using 'TED-like' talks, panel discussions etc. The university claims that it has already created material over 200 hours. A separate link on the university’s website does point out that the university plans to ramp up its syllabus, bring about a credit system and focus on e-learning and distance education. It is not clear what kind of certification the SPPU is offering to its students under this. Interestingly, for 2015-15, the University Grants Commission does not recognise (pdf) SPPU as a university which provides distance education. Sikkim Manipal University vs UGC: Meanwhile, the High Court ruled in July 2015 that students who took classes from the distance education provider Sikkim Manipal University (SMU) before 2012 would have valid degrees. This came about after SMU was operating on ambiguity in UGC rules with respect to distance learning in off-campus and offshore study centres of state universities. Cost of the scheme: The university project will be funded by Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA)…
