Open and Distance Learning for Sustainable Development in Bangladesh

Abstract

Bangladesh Open University (BOU) is considered as a Mega University for its continuous growth over the last two decades. The modus operandi of education makes BOU distinct from other traditional universities. In Bangladesh this is the first and only university that adopts Open and Distance Learning (ODL) as a mode of delivery. From its inception, BOU has taken several initiatives for the development of ODL in Bangladesh. The main intention of such initiatives is to contribute national development. The success and sustainability of any organization largely depends on its management capacity to cope with the rapid world-wide change, which is also true for BOU. To evaluate the role of BOU in sustainable development, this chapter outlines the achievements of BOU and challenges that it is facing in delivering effective ODL. This chapter also discusses the origins and meaning of the term “sustainability” and strategies that should be taken into consideration to ensure sustainable ODL, which can provide a framework for its successful implementation linking BOU's contribution to sustainable development.