The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has invited applications for a course in sericulture, the varsity said in a statement Wednesday.

 

"The programme aims to create awareness about the opportunities of employment and livelihood in sericulture and to prepare the youngsters in rural areas for accepting sericulture as profit making enterprise," the statement said.

 

The duration of the programme is six months. However, candidates have the flexibility of completing the programme within two years.

 

"The course fee is Rs.3,500. Candidates from rural areas and those living below the poverty line in urban areas can avail 50 percent fee concession on submission of valid proof," the statement added.

 

The medium of instruction for the course in silk farming – rearing of silkworms for the production of silk – is English. The programme is open to class 10 pass-outs. For candidates who have not passed Class 10 if they have two years experience in sericulture can also can also apply, by submitting their experience certificate from recognised NGOs or sericluture industry.

 

Admission to the course will be open till July 31.

 

Aspiring students can obtain the form and prospectus from various regional centres for Rs.200.

 

IGNOU is the world's largest open university system with a pan-India and international reach with flexible entry qualifications and a wide range of academic programmes at affordable cost.

 

 –Indo-Asian News Service