Shimla: In a step towards inclusive and accessible higher education, Shoolini University ’s Centre for Distance and Online Education (SCDOE) has announced a strategic partnership with Common Service Centers (CSCs) to deliver online and distance learning programmes to students in rural and remote areas across India. Common Service Centers (CSCs) are digital access points that deliver government and private sector services to citizens, particularly in rural and remote areas.
The collaboration was launched during an official ceremony at Shoolini University, with Mr. Sanjay Kumar Rakesh, Managing Director of CSC, present as the chief guest. Under the agreement, CSCs will serve as local access points for Shoolini’s digital education offerings, providing admission support, digital infrastructure, and academic guidance to learners in underserved regions.
“With this partnership, we aim to provide 360-degree support for Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) and rural learners,” said Mr. Rakesh. “CSC Academy plays a key role in the Digital India initiative, and strengthening online education is essential to driving this mission forward. This collaboration directly contributes to the goals of Viksit Bharat Abhiyan by making employment-oriented education more accessible.”
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Mr. Ashish Khosla, Founder and President of Shoolini University, highlighted the urgent need to bridge India’s educational divide through digital outreach. “India’s Gross Enrollment Ratio in higher education is just 28%. Digital platforms can be instrumental in improving access and driving enrollment, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 regions,” he said.
The event also honoured Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) for their on-ground role in facilitating digital learning across rural India. The launch featured a brief cultural opening with a Saraswati Vandana and lamp-lighting ceremony.
This partnership is expected to make quality higher education accessible at scale, aligning with national priorities under the Digital India mission. By leveraging the CSC network’s reach and Shoolini University’s academic resources, the initiative aims to bring structured, employment-ready learning opportunities to the doorstep of India’s rural youth.
About Shoolini University
Shoolini University, nestled in the serene foothills of the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, is renowned for its research-driven approach and consistently ranks among India’s top private universities. It has been recognized as India’s No. 1 Private University in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) and Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings for 2025 and as a Top 100 NIRF University in 2024, further distinguished by its NAAC A+ accreditation.
Shoolini is home to a vibrant community of passionate researchers, diligent students and dedicated faculty. The university is deeply committed to sustainability with a 100% solar-powered campus that recycles every drop of water and implements sustainable practices to minimize its ecological footprint.
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