ISLAMABAD, April 11: A Higher Education Commission (HEC) project to transform distance-learning through the use of a satellite-based interactive system, for delivery of television content and Internet for the Allama Iqbal Open University has been approved by the Central Developmental Working Party.

A press release issued here on Wednesday, says the aim of the project is to develop the infrastructure for a modern technology- based distance-education university, including interactive satellite-based television channels.

It will create digital content and deliver that through a multicast, satellite-based broadcast network from studios to study centres, schools and colleges.

The main campus will be connected through a wide area network (WAN) to regional centres, study centres and selected schools and colleges where AIOU students do practical work with a group of faculty members, available online over the network.

The establishment of an IT Directorate will develop, maintain and provide IT services for the university, students and tutors as well as improve quality of assessment of students and reform the staff examination system, using online assessment methods and tools.

On completion, the project would provide highly skilled and trained teachers to fill the human resource gap, in the higher education sector and help restructure the pre-service and in- service training needs of these teachers.

The establishment of an interactive information and communication infrastructure and quality education delivery and support system will enhance the education outreach to 350 selected locations to begin with. It will also reduce the gender disparity by extending incentives to female students, in order to improve their participation rate.— Our Reporter