IGNOU, Indira Gandhi National Open University In a significant step toward strengthening public health and environmental safety, collaborated with the World Health Organization (WHO), South-East Asia Region, has introduced a new academic offering — the Certificate in Health Care Waste Management (CHCWM).
IGNOU’s collaboration with WHO, this
program is designed to build professional capacity in the safe and effective handling of biomedical waste, a growing concern in today’s healthcare systems.
Why This Program Matters
With the rise in healthcare services, especially post-COVID-19, there has been an increase in medical waste generation across hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic centers. Improper disposal of this waste not only poses a serious risk to public health but also significantly impacts environmental sustainability. To address this, IGNOU’s CHCWM course aims to equip healthcare workers and sanitation professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to manage medical waste responsibly.
The course is tailored for a wide range of individuals involved in waste management — from hospital staff and healthcare workers to employees in municipal sanitation departments and those working at primary health centers. Whether you’re a full-time professional or someone entering the field, this program serves as a crucial tool for understanding the importance of proper healthcare waste management.
International Standards with Local Relevance
What sets this program apart is its adherence to both international and national regulations. The curriculum aligns with the WHO’s global recommendations on managing healthcare waste and incorporates India’s Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016 (including amendments from 2018 and 2019). This ensures that learners are equipped with best practices that are globally accepted while remaining relevant to the Indian context.
Participants will explore various types of healthcare waste — from sharps and infectious materials to hazardous chemicals — and understand their potential effects on human health and the environment. The course also covers key topics such as infection control measures, legal and regulatory frameworks, and location-specific strategies for effective waste management.
Flexible Structure, Practical Learning
The CHCWM certificate program is designed to be flexible and learner-friendly. It has a minimum duration of six months and allows up to two years for completion, making it ideal for working professionals. Admissions are open twice a year — during the July–December and January–June cycles.
To be eligible, applicants need to have completed Class 12 or an equivalent qualification. No prior professional experience is required, though it can certainly add value to the learning experience.
What makes this program especially accessible is its blended learning model. Students receive Self-Instructional Materials (SIMs) and also have access to online resources including video lectures, live Q&A sessions, web conferences, and a dedicated learning support platform. This hybrid approach ensures that learners can engage with the material in ways that suit their schedules and preferences.
The course also includes an option to choose between a hands-on workshop or a project component, adding a practical dimension to the learning process. Assessment is based on submitted assignments and a term-end examination, offering a comprehensive evaluation of the learner’s progress.
Easy Online Admission via Samarth Portal
Admissions to the CHCWM program are now open and can be completed through the Samarth portal: ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in.
Samarth is an integrated digital platform that streamlines the entire admission process for IGNOU and other higher education institutions. Prospective students can use the portal to register online, fill out application forms, upload necessary documents, and pay fees — all from the comfort of their homes. The system also offers real-time application tracking and sends automatic updates regarding the admission status.
This user-friendly portal eliminates traditional admission hurdles and allows students to seamlessly access educational opportunities, including the new CHCWM program.
Empowering Odisha Through Education
In a related initiative, IGNOU has also signed an MoU with the Government of Odisha to offer all its academic programs in the Odia language. This move aims to enhance educational accessibility and inclusivity across the state, reflecting IGNOU’s commitment to regional empowerment and linguistic diversity.
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