Early Times Report
Jammu, Jan 24: The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has launched a pioneering four-year Bachelor of Science (BSc) program in Food Safety and Quality Management (BSCFFSQM). This program, offered under the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode by the School of Agriculture, aims to meet the increasing demand for qualified professionals in the food safety and quality management sector.
Food safety has become an essential discipline with growing concerns around food quality, safety standards, and regulations. The enforcement of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, has resulted in the need for skilled and trained professionals in various sectors, including manufacturing, retail, regulation, and consumer protection. This new bachelor’s degree program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address these challenges.
The program is designed to create human resources specializing in food safety, food science, food processing, and auditing. It offers a multidisciplinary approach, blending food science with food safety practices, promoting self-employment, and enhancing career opportunities in the food processing industry.
Admission Details:
• The program is open for the January 2025 admission cycle.
• Interested candidates can apply online through the IGNOU admission portal at https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/.
• The last date to apply is January 31, 2025.
Career Opportunities: Graduates of this program can explore a wide range of career opportunities, including roles as:
• Food Safety Supervisor/Manager in the food and hospitality industry
• Technical Officer in Quality Control departments
• Food Safety Officer/Inspector in regulatory bodies
• Trainers/Counselors in training or counseling organizations
• Members of supply chain management teams in retail chains or industries
• Self-employment opportunities as certifying professionals, trainers, auditors, and more.
Dr. Sandeep Gupta, Regional Director, Regional Centre Jammu, encouraged aspirants to pursue this promising field and contribute to building a strong food safety culture, emphasizing the growing importance of food safety professionals in the current global scenario.
This program, developed in line with the National Education Policy and UGC’s guidelines for four-year undergraduate courses, is a unique opportunity for those seeking to enter this critical and rapidly expanding industry. |
