By Abdul Rahman M. Baig
Jeddah – The 39th Convocation of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) was held on April 28, 2026, at the Consulate General of India in Jeddah, marking a significant occasion for Indian students in Saudi Arabia. The ceremony celebrated the academic achievements of learners who successfully completed their programs through the university’s distance education system. Conducted with formal dignity, the event highlighted IGNOU’s continued commitment to making higher education accessible beyond national boundaries and recognized the dedication of students pursuing their studies while residing abroad.
The ceremony was marked by a sense of pride and academic distinction as graduates were recognized for their perseverance and commitment to learning. The event also highlighted the role of Indira Gandhi National Open University in expanding access to higher education across borders. Bringing together achievement and ambition, the convocation reaffirmed the university’s global outreach and its focus on promoting inclusive and accessible education for learners worldwide.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, Consul General of India in Jeddah, who attended as the chief guest and presided over the proceedings, adding both prestige and diplomatic significance to the occasion. His participation highlighted India’s continued commitment to supporting the educational aspirations of its diaspora and strengthening academic engagement beyond its borders.Mohammed Imran, Principal, International Indian School Jeddah, who attended as the guest of honor, joined him. His presence brought additional academic distinction to the gathering, reflecting the collaborative spirit between educational institutions and the wider Indian community in Saudi Arabia
The convocation saw the conferment of degree certificates on graduates from across Saudi Arabia, recognizing their academic achievements through the Open and Distance Learning system. The ceremony highlighted the determination and resilience of students who pursued higher education despite geographical and professional challenges. It marked a significant milestone in their educational journeys, reflecting their commitment to learning and personal advancement.
A key highlight of the ceremony was the outstanding achievement of Ms. Wafra Khanam, who secured the first rank in MA English at Indira Gandhi National Open University. She also emerged as the top performer among students across more than 25 overseas study centers worldwide. Her accomplishment was widely applauded, bringing pride to the Indian community in Saudi Arabia and underscoring the academic excellence of IGNOU’s international learners.
Her achievement was attributed to her dedication and academic excellence, as well as the guidance and support provided by ECGS – Educational Consulting & Guidance Services, the official overseas study center facilitating Indira Gandhi National Open University programs in Saudi Arabia. The institution’s role in supporting students was highlighted as a key factor in enabling academic success through distance learning.
The success of Indira Gandhi National Open University in Saudi Arabia has been credited in large part to the leadership of Riaz Mulla. His sustained efforts and strategic direction have contributed to expanding access to higher education for Indian expatriates across the Kingdom. Over the years, his initiatives have enabled thousands of learners to pursue academic programs through distance education, helping them overcome geographical and professional constraints.
His leadership has extended beyond the facilitation of academic programs, contributing to the development of a strong learning culture among students in the Kingdom. Under his guidance, Indira Gandhi National Open University has strengthened its presence in Saudi Arabia, emerging as an important platform for educational advancement among the Indian diaspora. The initiative has supported students in building resilience and pursuing higher education, positioning the institution as a key contributor to accessible learning opportunities abroad.
Supporting these initiatives, Mehad Ahmad, Centre Head at ECGS – Educational Consulting & Guidance Services, along with the wider ECGS team, has contributed to strengthening student engagement and program outreach. The team has played an important role in coordinating academic activities, promoting programs, and ensuring effective operational support for learners, thereby facilitating smoother access to educational services for the student community.
Since its establishment in 2003, ECGS – Educational Consulting & Guidance Services has played a significant role in expanding access to higher education in Saudi Arabia. The institution has facilitated opportunities for more than 10,000 students to obtain recognized degrees from Indira Gandhi National Open University while managing their professional and personal commitments.
The convocation was also highlighted as a reflection of IGNOU’s continued commitment to flexible, inclusive, and accessible education. It underscored the university’s role in enabling learners to overcome geographical barriers, pursue academic goals through open, and distance learning.
Addressing the gathering, Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, Consul General of India in Jeddah and chief guest, congratulated the graduates for their perseverance and highlighted the transformative role of education in empowering communities. He noted its contribution to the intellectual and professional development of the Indian diaspora.
The guest of honor, Mohammed Imran, echoed these views, commending the spirit of continuous learning among students. He also emphasized the importance of academic excellence in shaping responsible and forward-looking future leaders
Distinguished dignitaries, faculty members, students, and their families, who gathered to mark the occasion in a spirit of pride and celebration, attended the event. The convocation served as a memorable moment for the Indian community in Saudi Arabia, reflecting shared academic achievement and collective accomplishment.
The 39th Convocation marked the successful completion of academic journeys for graduates while reaffirming the values of lifelong learning, resilience, and global opportunity. The event underscored the continued importance of education within the Indian community in Saudi Arabia, highlighting its commitment to academic progress and excellence beyond geographical boundaries.
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