| MUMBAI:
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has inked an exclusive partnership
deal with Maya Academy of Advanced Cinematics (MAAC) to jointly offer a BA Degree
in 3D animation and visual effects (36 months), a diploma in computer generated
imagery (18 months) and a certificate in film making (six months). Additionally,
the curriculum will also offer soft skills, business and production management
training, and an orientation to student on an 'actual project of creation of content'. Under
the agreement, while Ignou will set the norms of the examination, assessments
and university standards, the degree, diploma and certificate courses will be
delivered from Maac's education centers nationwide and internationally. Says
Ignou vice-chancellor VN Rajasekharan Pillai, "Maac's faculty and infrastructure
make them the ideal partner for Ignou in this endeavor of providing quality education
to the lengths and breadths of India in the rapidly growing animation industry,
which has the potential of providing large employment opportunities to Indian
youth." Adds
Maya Entertainment MD and CEO Ronald D'mello, "Animation is a serious career
requiring specialised skills and in-depth learning. Maac is a natural fit with
Ignou's own objectives, and we can now provide an even wider platform for formal
education in animation and VFX from the largest Central University." | 
