The University has set up the Centre for Staff Training and Development (CSTD) in April 1993, as a Human Resource Development and Training Division of the Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Open University. The broad vision of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Open University is creating an egalitarian society by using emerging technologies in teaching-learning processes as well as in administrative and support services. To realise this vision, the University has adapted staff training and staff development as one of the key strategies in its mission.

 

Keeping in view of changing needs, the CSTD is designing training programmes to its staff both Teaching and Non-teaching to upgrade their skills.  Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Open University recognises that a strategic, professional approach to staff development helps the University to attract and retain high-calibre staff with the skills and competencies necessary to deliver its objectives.

 

Earlier, the CSTD used to design and conduct training programmes to internal staff members in a limited way. With the support of external agencies the CSTD expanded its focus and scope from 2021 onwards. Commonwealth Educational Media Centre for Asia (CEMCA) has recognized CSTD as one of the potential training centre and extended financial support to CSTD to conduct programs on skill development related to Online and Blended mode of teaching for the teachers working in the field of Higher Education. CSTD is also collaborating with several National & International Agencies in the field of Education Technology embracing innovative Teaching & Learning Methodologies. Commonwealth of Learning (COL) also recognised CSTD as one of the collaborative units and entered an MoU with Dr.BRAOU, for organising trainings programmes and thus, Dr.BRAOU became a member of “Collective Commons” an initiative of COL.

 

The Pandemic situation forced to look for alternatives and to pay wide spread attention on e-learning, Massive Online Open Courses (MOOCs) and Online Learning Technologies. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Open University as a pioneer in Distance Education initiated necessary steps in the direction of introducing e-learning programmes in the University.