IGNOU Launches MBA in Hindi and Odia to Promote Multilingual Education
In a landmark move aligned with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has launched its flagship MBA programme in Hindi and Odia. The initiative, officially announced on Monday, marks a significant step toward making professional education more inclusive and accessible to students from non-English-speaking backgrounds.
A Milestone in NEP 2020 Implementation
NEP 2020 places strong emphasis on multilingual education, aiming to democratize access to learning by enabling students to study complex subjects in their native languages. IGNOU’s new MBA language offerings directly support this objective, providing students the opportunity to master business concepts in Hindi and Odia—two of India’s widely spoken languages.
According to a statement from the university, the goal is to remove linguistic barriers that often prevent students from pursuing advanced education. By offering core MBA study materials in regional languages, the university seeks to improve both comprehension and academic engagement.
Course Delivery and Structure: E-Kumbh and AICTE Collaboration
The multilingual MBA initiative is being rolled out under the E-Kumbh project, a nationwide collaboration between IGNOU and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). This partnership has enabled the development of high-quality course materials translated into regional languages using advanced technology.
A pivotal part of this process is Anuvadini, an AI-powered translation tool developed by AICTE. The tool facilitates the real-time, large-scale translation of academic content, making it feasible to offer professional courses in multiple Indian languages without compromising on accuracy or content richness.
At the launch event, Dr Abhay Jere, Vice Chairman of AICTE, highlighted the importance of tools like Anuvadini in shaping a “borderless” education ecosystem. He emphasized how artificial intelligence is helping overcome longstanding barriers in education, especially in fields that have traditionally been dominated by English-language instruction.
Regional Languages for Real Impact: Hindi and Odia Chosen First
The initial rollout includes two languages: Hindi, India’s most widely spoken language, and Odia, spoken predominantly in the state of Odisha. These choices are strategic, reflecting the substantial student populations in these linguistic groups.
By delivering MBA education in these languages, IGNOU is expected to empower students who might otherwise feel excluded due to the dominance of English in professional programs. This approach ensures that regional language speakers can pursue management education without the additional hurdle of linguistic adaptation.
Leadership Vision and Future Expansion Plans
Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor of IGNOU, reiterated the university’s commitment to inclusivity and equitable access. She stated that “no learner should be left behind,” and confirmed that the institution plans to expand the MBA offering to 10 more Indian languages shortly.
This expansion will further deepen the reach of professional education into rural and semi-urban areas, enabling a wider demographic of students to participate in India’s growing knowledge economy. The university envisions a future where language is no longer a barrier but a bridge to opportunity.
Implications for Students and the Education Sector
The introduction of multilingual MBA programmes is not just a symbolic gesture—it represents a paradigm shift in higher education. It acknowledges the cultural and linguistic diversity of India and aligns academic content delivery with learners' linguistic comfort zones.
For students, this means:
- Greater confidence and clarity in understanding business principles
- Improved academic performance due to reduced language-related stress
- Broader participation from non-metropolitan areas
- Enhanced employment readiness within regional and national job markets
Conclusion: A Step Toward Inclusive Professional Education
IGNOU’s move to offer MBA programmes in Hindi and Odia is a progressive leap toward inclusive, multilingual higher education in India. Backed by AI-driven tools and strategic national partnerships, this initiative serves as a model for how technology and policy can combine to make education more accessible, equitable, and relevant.
As IGNOU prepares to expand this model to 10 more Indian languages, it’s clear that the future of professional education in India is not only digital—but also deeply multilingual.
Students interested in the multilingual MBA programme can visit the official IGNOU website for enrolment details and updates on upcoming language offerings.
