By Wasim Akram, PhD Research Scholar, Department of Economics, University of Jammu
Education is not just about attending classes; it is a journey of hard work, dedication, and patience. At the University of Jammu’s Directorate of Distance and Online Education (DD&OE), students face many challenges, such as long travel, lack of time, and family responsibilities. Yet, their strong determination keeps them moving forward.
Distance Learning: A Lifeline for Many. Established on March 3, 1976, as the Institute of Correspondence Education, the DD&OE has played a crucial role in providing flexible learning opportunities. Today, it offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs across multiple disciplines, catering to students who cannot attend regular classes.Programs Offered:Undergraduate:B.A., B. Com, Postgraduate: M.A.Dogri, Economics, English, Hindi, Punjabi, Political Science, Sociology, Urdu, M. Com,PGDBM, B.Ed, etc. This mode of education ensures accessibility for those withjobs, family responsibilities, or geographical constraints.
Stories of Dedication and Sacrifice
Distance learners often make extraordinary efforts to attend the 20-day (PCP) classes, travelling long distances while balancing personal and academic responsibilities. Their unwavering dedication highlights the true spirit of learning.
Inspiring Journeys of Distance Learners
Tanisha Choudhary (Bishnah),coming from a non-medical background, had a deep interest in science. However, due to personal circumstances, she opted for a Master’s in Economics through distance learning. Initially, she found the subject challenging, but with support from faculty, she gradually gained confidence. Over time, she excelled, even overcoming her fear of public speaking by delivering class presentations. Today, she enjoys the subject and is self-motivated.Ranjeeta Dhall, from Rajouri Nowshera, shares, “I didn’t attend classes at first. But gradually, I started to understand the subject better. Then, I decided to come to Jammu for the classes, and now I make sure to attend the first class every morning.”.TaniaRajput (Kathua), who lives 2.5 hours away from the university, initially wanted to pursue regular admission, but she was unaware of distance learning options. Due to family responsibilities and the inability to stay in a hostel, she chose distance education. Tania says, “I am really happy with my decision to join distance learning. Even though it was a big change for me, I feel a sense of accomplishment.” Tania adds, “I never imagined speaking in front of a class. But after delivering a presentation, I overcame my fear.” In addition to her distance learning program, Tania is also pursuing a B.Ed. as part of the new education policy, which allows students to pursue two degrees simultaneously. She is passionate about teaching and aims to become a lecturer. Tania believes that completing her B.Ed. will complement her Master’s degree and open up opportunities for a career in education. Sukriti Shandilya (R.S. Pura)Sukriti commutes over an hour daily to attend classes. She initially hesitated about distance education, but her father encouraged her to pursue her studies with dedication. Now, she sees it as a valuable opportunity and never misses a class.Prachi Bhau (Barnai, JammuPrachi takes two buses to reach her classes. Despite the long and tiring journey, she values the learning experience and the chance to interact with teachers and classmates.Aditi Thakur (Reasi) hails from Reasi but cannot travel daily due to the long distance. Instead, she stays with her sister in Jammu during the PCP session. Aditi shares, “My dream was to pursue a Master’s degree in regular mode, but due to my mother’s health issues and family responsibilities, I had to opt for distance learning. I attend every class throughout the semester.” She finds in-person classes essential for structuring her studies, as she struggles with online learning. “In these 20 days, I have learned a lot, and interacting with my classmates helps me gain more knowledge.” Shabbu Devi (Nagrota) juggles household responsibilities alongside her education. “I wake up at 5 AM every day,” she says. “These days, I prepare breakfast and meals for my family before heading to class.” Despite the challenges, Shabbu attends as many PCP classes as possible, knowing that each session is crucial for her academic growth. Her determination and hard work reflect her commitment to both her education and family.Riya Sharma (Miran Sahib, Jammu)Riya is determined to complete her higher education. She strongly believes that education will shape her future.Sohil (Udhampur)Sohil’s long commute makes it impossible for him to attend the first class of the day, but he ensures he is present for the remaining sessions. He believes attending in-person classes strengthens his understanding and makes his degree more meaningful.
These stories prove that education is not limited by distance, time, or personal struggles—it is fueled by passion, dedication, and resilience. Despite long commutes, financial hardships, and household responsibilities, they continue their learning journey with unwavering determination. Their experiences highlight the true essence of education: the will to grow, adapt, and succeed.
Challenges Faced by Distance Learners
Despite their determination, distance learners encounter numerous challenges, including:
- Long Travel Hours – Many students wake up before dawn to reach classes on time.
- Household Responsibilities – Especially for female students, balancing education with family duties can be difficult.
- Limited Learning Time – Some students can only attend for a few days, making every session crucial.
- Academic Pressure – Students from non-economic backgrounds initially struggle but improve through perseverance and faculty support.
A Message for Students Aspiring to Pursue a Degree
To all those students who dream of pursuing a degree but face challenges, we want you to know that your dreams are valid and your journey is unique. Life may present obstacles, but it doesn’t mean the path is closed. Take small steps, seek opportunities, and stay determined. You have the strength to overcome challenges, and there are always alternative paths to your goals. Don’t lose hope; keep pushing forward. Your education is within reach, and your perseverance will open doors.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
