The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has opened applications for its ‘Best Innovation Award 2024’. Currently enrolled students are invited to submit their nominations by October 15.
The annual award, which began in 2018 under the National Centre for Innovation in Distance Education (NCIDE), recognizes the top three innovative student projects. Application forms and detailed guidelines can be found on the IGNOU website (ignou.ac.in) or at sites.google.com/ignou.ac.in/navrieti/sia-2024.
Winners will receive trophies, certificates, and cash awards of Rs 10,000, Rs 7,000, and Rs 5,000 for first, second, and third places, respectively. In addition to the prizes, selected students will benefit from mentorship and training opportunities aimed at further developing their innovations, according to a press release.
Key points to note:
– Applications must be submitted via email to ncide@ignou.ac.in. Hard copies, handwritten, or scanned submissions will not be accepted.
– Shortlisted candidates will be required to present their innovations, including the development process and functionality, in a virtual format.
– Winners will be notified individually and through the IGNOU website, with no additional communication provided to other applicants.
The innovations are accepted across several categories such as healthcare and biomedical devices, agriculture and rural development, food processing and packaging, smart transport and traffic management, renewable energy, and alternative fuels, among others. Students can visit the official website to explore the full list of themes and will also have the opportunity to participate in competitions organized by the Ministry and other institutions.