OU
Departments
OU Departments
Academic Affairs Division
- Administer Open Distance Learning.
- Manage the delivery of Open Distance Learning.
- Plan, design and develop and programmes/courses.
- Author course material for ODL including Instructional Design.
- Initiate Open Distance Learning programmes/courses.
- Provide learner support including extra-curricular activities.
- Be involved in research activities.
- Organise activities or publish materials which could help the community at large.
Responsible for AAD
Mr Ashwan Domah (Deputy Registrar)
academics@open.ac.mu
Admissions Office
The Admissions Office operates under the Administration Division to ensure that accurate information is given to prospective learners, thus enabling them to make informed decisions. It is responsible for processing applications from prospective learners. The Admissions Office provides assistance to OU’s prospective learners throughout their application process and module registration. This Office also processes requests for exemption from new laerners.
Responsible for Admission
Mr Ashwan Domah (Deputy Registrar)
admission@open.ac.mu
Audio-Video Production Unit
The Audio Video Production (AVP) Unit is dedicated to enriching the learning experience through high-quality audio-visual content by providing a wide range of services to support both learners and the university’s operations.
Core Services:
- Recording key academic lectures for online access.
- Creating engaging video lessons aligned with the national curriculum for the School Support Program (SSP).
- Developing supplementary video resources to enhance understanding of complex course concepts.
- Facilitating audio and video production training through audio video workshops for media and communication programs.
- Providing audio-visual support and recordings for OU events, including live inductions and streaming.
The AVP Unit collaborates closely with other departments within the university to ensure our audio-visual services meet the needs of learners, faculty, and staff. By leveraging technology, we deliver exceptional audio-visual products that contribute to the overall success of the OU, enhancing the quality of our learners’ educational experiences.
Responsible for Audio Video Production
Mr DAYANAND DOOKHEE
avp@open.ac.mu
Certification Unit
Dr. Prakash Jhugaroo (Deputy Registrar)
registry-cu@open.ac.mu
Engineering & Technology Services (ETS) Unit
The Engineering and Technology services is a unit under the Multimedia and ICT division. It was set up to provide specific services within the organization in the field of ICT related technologies. The broad aims and objectives of the unit is to develop and maintain the technical infrastructure of the institution to support the delivery of digital systems and services in both the staff and student domains.
Responsible for Engineering Technology Services(ETS)
Mr Mohunlall Lallbahadoor
buildingservices@open.ac.mu
Examinations Unit
Examination plays a vital role in the education, providing valuable data to inform ongoing improvements in teaching and learning process. The Examination Unit was set up in August 2012 in compliance with subsection 5(h) and (i) and 24 (1), (d), and (i) of the Open University of Mauritius Act No. 2 of 2010. The mission statement of the OU Examinations Unit is to establish a confidential, efficient and transparent assessment and evaluation system that will meet the expectations of the Academia and the learners.
Responsible for Examinations
Dr. Prakash Jhugaroo (Deputy Registrar)
examstudentservice@open.ac.mu
Finance Division
The Finance Division of OU is responsible for the management of OU’s Finance; the preparation of Budget, Payroll, Accounts as well as collection of revenue mainly from course fees. The Finance Division also provides essential financial information to OU’s Board with a view to increasing operational efficiency and to ensure financial sustainability in the long run.
Responsible for Finance
Mr Nunkoo Satyaprakash (Financial Controller)
feesfinance@open.ac.mu
Human Resource and Development
The HR Unit is responsible for the HR functions to meet the needs of OU while ensuring compliance to established procedures and human resource policies applicable to parastatal bodies based on guidelines of the provisional of the PRB Report; the HRM Manual of the Ministry for Civil Service and Administrative Reforms (MCSAR), relevant Circulars and from the Ministry of Public Services, Administrative and Institutional reforms( CMPSAIR) and PSC Regulations.
Responsible for Human Resource Management Office
Mrs MAUNICK Surrita Devi
hrestablishment@open.ac.mu
IT Unit
The IT Unit plays an important role in the operation of all technological services from managing the University’ s network infrastructure to providing technical support for all staff and Learners. The IT Unit is responsible for all Information Systems, IT equipment and IT Network of the Open University of Mauritius. The mission of the IT Unit is to deliver effective, efficient and collaborative IT services, solutions and strategies in a timely manner so as to support the University’s strategic goals. The main objective of the IT Unit is to be the department that OU staff and learners seek out as a partner for providing innovative and creative solutions and reliable information in order to help them achieve their objectives and goals. Our team is dedicated to enhance the academic and administrative experience through innovative IT solutions. The IT Unit also provide cost-effective solutions based on the requirements of the University and initiates the best implementation plan according to the delivery time. We are committed to maintain a secure and reliable digital environment and driving forward the university’s digital transformation initiatives.
Responsible for Information Technology
Mr Atish Beekharry (Senior System Analyst)
itunitgroup@open.ac.mu
Library Services
As OU aims at being a technology-based university, the concept of the e-library is important. Online resources, e-books and e- journals etc are made available to staff and learners. The e-library is particularly suited to learners who have opted to study by distance education mode and whose physical presence on the campus is minimal. They can access the e-library on a 24/7 basis anytime and anywhere with internet access.
Head of Library Services
Mrs Savita Bhooabul
libraryservices@open.ac.mu
Marketing and Public Relations Unit
The Marketing and PR Unit of OU looks into the overall public relations and marketing activities of the University, creating communication content and implementing nationwide information activities through multiple media (Print, Radio, TV, Press, Social Media) and event management. The Unit either fully organises or collaborates with other departments to run events/activities such as Induction Sessions, Fairs, Convocation Ceremonies, MOU signatures, Open Days, Symposia and Conferences, etc.
Marketing and Public Relations Manager
Dr Joy Beesoon
marketing@open.ac.mu
Open School Division
The Open School Division (OS) is the corporate arm that provides training to the workforce, and gets drop-outs back to learning, thus giving them a second chance. Moreover, OS contributes to the Student Support Programme (SSP) which aims at providing additional support to learners of Grades 7, 8 and 9. Current activities of OS include: training of public officers in various grades with a view to upgrading their skills for appointment and better performance training of young job seekers in Employability Skills, training of corporate staff in Management and Technical courses and production of videos, supporting notes, self-assessment tasks and links to additional resources for SSP.
Responsible for Open School Division
Mr Ashwan Domah (Deputy Registrar)
openschool@open.ac.mu
Partnership & Collaboration Unit
Dr JUGMOHUN Assish Kumar Ghanshyamsingh
partnerships@open.ac.mu
Quality
Quality serves as the foundation of excellence and trust in all universities and OU is no exception. At OU, the Quality Assurance Division ensures that Quality measures are embedded in every facer of the University’s activities, encompassing rigorous academic programmes, research, faculty development and learner support among others. As an Open Distance Learning institution, OU is steadfast in its belief that a commitment to quality cultivates an environment in which students can flourish, innovate and reach their potential. By continuously upholding the most stringent standard, we at OU not only enhance the educational experience but shall also go the extra mile in equipping our learners to succeed in an increasingly competitive and globalized landscape. Quality is not merely an aspiration; it is a solemn commitment to every member of the University’s community.
Responsible for Graphics, Publishing and Printing and Team Leader Quality Assurance
Mr Viswanaden Patten
qualityassurance@open.ac.mu
Research Office
The Research office aims to become a national and international centre of excellence in key research areas such as online learning, Technology in education, Public Health and Inter-culturalism, amongst others. It acts as a catalyst to encourage creative research, innovative scholarship, and a spirit of inquiry leading to the generation of new knowledge within the University. The Research office endeavours to provide a stimulating and congenial environment to promote research, consultancy and innovation across interdisciplinary projects. It’s target and also promote institution-wide services for seeking and managing research funding and grants from different institutions including government, research bodies, foundations, and industries.
Responsible for Research Office
Dr Perienen Appavoo Senior Academic Media Coordinator(Research & Planning)
research@open.ac.mu
Student Affairs Unit
The Student Affairs Unit plays a vital role in acting as the interface between prospective and current learners and OU. It interacts with other departments to provide support to current and prospective OU learners. Information is disseminated through the OU website to all prospective learners about the programmes on offer. The website also displays important communiqué for all stakeholders and the general public. Credentials are provided to access the LMS Blackboard where learners get their learning materials in form of manuals, recorded videos, lecture notes, past exams papers, among others. The unit also communicate with learners’ access platforms like the SMS and bulk mails, ensuring a seamless omnichannel experience for OU learners.
Responsible for Student Affairs
Mrs Hagila Atawoo
studentaffairsunit@open.ac.mu
Dr APPAVOO Perienen
Dr Perienen Appavoo is a Senior Academic at the Open University of Mauritius. He has spearheaded the setting up of the Research Office, and has subsequently developed the relevant policies and strategies for the department. As Head of the Research Office, he is also a member of the Research Degree Committee and the Academic Council. He chairs the Research Committee and the doctoral school sub-committee. He is the Deputy Chair of the Research Ethics Committee.
His area of expertise is educational technology and online learning. He has presented many research papers in this field at international conferences and published papers in SCOPUS-indexed journals. He is a reviewer for four prestigious journals namely, British Journal of Educational Technology, IRRODL, EURASIA Journal of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education and Africa Education Review. He is also a project reviewer for the Higher Education Commission of Mauritius. He has chaired three international conferences in collaboration with UKZN, South Africa. Dr Appavoo has a passion for research and training. He is presently supervising thesis work at Undergraduate, Master’s and Doctoral levels. And his famous quote is “The human mind is inquisitive and responding to that inquisitiveness in an empirical manner is research”
Mrs ATAWOO Hagila
Mrs. Hagila Atawoo has set up and led the Student Affairs Unit (SAU) since 2014, where she oversees the Learning Management System and all communication platforms, including the management of the Open University (OU) website. With over 12 years of experience in administering various web and learning management systems such as Moodle, Microsoft Office 365, and Blackboard, she has honed her skills in digital education and online learning environments. Mrs. Atawoo is a certified Associate and practitioner of the Blackboard Academy and holds the title of Fellow in the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) in the UK. Mrs. H.Atawoo conducts instruction sessions for new students and organises training workshops for part-time lecturers, on the use of the LMS Blackboard. She possesses a BA (Hons) in Graphic Design and an MBA with a specialization in Marketing. In addition to her administrative roles, she contributes to the academic community as a part-time lecturer in Digital Marketing, engaging in teaching, manual writing, and student supervision.
Mrs BHOOABUL Savita
Mrs Savita Bhoabul is an accomplished Head of Library Services with over 28 years of experience in librarianship. She holds a Master of Information Studies with a specialization in Information Architecture from Charles Sturt University and has been a registered member of the Mauritius Council of Registered Librarians since 2003. In her role, Mrs Bhoabul actively contributes to the collective leadership of the Open University by chairing the OU Library Committee and driving initiatives to enhance information literacy skills among users.
Her responsibilities encompass the development and acquisition of both physical and digital library resources, along with promoting library awareness. She oversees daily operations to ensure all registered users have access to essential library services. Committed to fostering research, Mrs Bhoabul conducts library instruction sessions, creates tutorial videos, and collaborates with e-resource providers for training workshops. She is also dedicated to implementing quality assurance processes within the library. Additionally, Mrs Bhoabul serves as a part-time lecturer for the BA (Hons) Library and Information programme at the Open University, reflecting her passion for education and knowledge dissemination. Her future goal is to launch an integrated Library Services Online Platform, addressing the needs of 21st-century library users.
Mr BEEKHARRY Atish
Atish Beekharry is a seasoned IT professional with over 16 years of experience in the industry. He holds an MSc and a BSc(Hons) in Software Engineering from the University of Technology, Mauritius. Currently serving as a Systems Analyst/Senior Systems Analyst at the Open University of Mauritius since 2017, Atish also leads the IT Unit as the Head of IT and has been Acting IT Manager. His expertise encompasses system development, project management, and strategic IT leadership. Technical Expertise Atish is proficient in a variety of programming languages, including PHP, JavaScript, jQuery, Ajax, HTML, XML, CSS, ColdFusion, and MySQL. He also holds certifications in hardware maintenance, networking (N+), and tender preparation. Professional Experience Atish has a diverse career background, including roles as a web developer, programmer, analyst programmer, and system administrator in various institutions. Notably, he has served as a part-time lecturer and project supervisor at the University of Mauritius.
Key Achievements
Atish has successfully managed and delivered several high-impact IT projects, including:
• Event Management Information System and Student Support Programme for the Ministry of Education.
• Website, E-learning systems, and E-Dictionary for the University of Mauritius.
• Student Feedback Questionnaire system for the Mauritius Institute of Education.
• HRMS, Accounting Software, Learner registration and Part-Time Tutor System at the Open University of Mauritius.
With his extensive experience in systems development, IT governance, and project management, Atish continues to play a pivotal role in advancing technology-driven initiatives at the Open University of Mauritius.
Dr BEESOON Joy
Currently the Marketing and Public Relations Manager of the Open University of Mauritius, Dr Joy Beesoon is a Certified Digital Marketing Professional from the Digital Marketing Institute (UK) and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Communication, a Master’s degree in Media Management and a PhD with research in social media and higher education marketing. Dr Beesoon previously worked at the Mauritius College of the Air as Coordinator/Producer, where he produced over a hundred educational programmes, including documentaries and studio-based productions for adult learners, schools and for TV broadcasting. Joy has also been the Programme Coordinator of the Audiovisual Production module run by the Mauritius College of the Air and a also part-time lecturer in Audiovisual Production for over a decade. He was awarded the prestigious Fulbright scholarship by the U.S. Department of State to pursue postgraduate studies in Media Management at Syracuse University (USA).
Mr DOOKHEE Dayanand
Mr Dayanand Dookhee is a seasoned professional in television production with over three decades of experience, during which he has directed a diverse array of educational programmes, from studio-based productions to impactful documentaries. His extensive background in media production enables him to effectively oversee the Audio Video Production Unit (AVPU) at the Open University (OU).
Under Mr. Dookhee’s leadership, the AVPU has fostered collaborations with various departments within the university, as well as with external stakeholders, to produce high-quality audio-visual resources. These resources are tailored to enhance the educational experience for OU learners, promoting engagement and deeper understanding of the curriculum. His commitment to innovation and excellence in educational media production has led to the incorporation of advanced technology and contemporary pedagogical methods, ensuring that the university’s audio-visual materials meet the evolving needs of 21st-century learners. Mr. Dookhee’s passion for education and media continues to inspire both students and faculty alike, making a significant impact on the learning environment at the Open University.
Mr DOMAH Ashwan
Mr Ashwan Domah joined the Open University of Mauritius in July 2024 and currently serves as the Deputy Registrar where he is mandated to play a pivotal role in overseeing academic administration and ensuring the smooth functioning of key institutional processes. Mr Domah has excelled academically, holding a Master in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Economics & Finance. His academic portfolio is further enhanced by numerous certifications, including Sustainable Development in Business, Leadership Management, Productivity Management, Time Management, Diversity – Inclusion and Recruitment, Skills for Inclusiveness Conversations, Remote Work Foundations, Blockchains For Managers, Situational Leadership II, Professional Leadership, Conflict Management, Global Reporting Initiative, Project Management, Interpersonal & Effective Communication Strategies.
With over 18 years of experience in managerial administration and leadership, he brings an extensive expertise in records management, sustainable development, regulatory compliance, project management and business acumen necessary to translate business requirements and objectives into scalable, highly resilient and successful system solutions without compromising on product and service quality. Mr Domah is currently a Member of the Mauritius Institute of Directors (MIOD) and also serves on the Research & Innovation Monitoring Committee of the Mauritius Research & Innovation Council. Mr Domah’s leadership skills are evident through his roles in various private organisations as Corporate Social Responsibility Consultant and Team Leader since 2006 and his expertise also extends to his previous role as Zone Manager at the Central Water Authority, where he was entrusted the responsibility of the overall administration and operations of the Eastern zone of Mauritius.
In addition to his administrative expertise, Mr Domah is passionate about student development and is actively involved in initiatives that support student success and retention. He is working closely with staff and external stakeholders to enhance the academic environment and ensure the Open University of Mauritius remains compliant with higher educational standards. He is currently overseeing the Academic Affairs Department, Admissions and Open School Department at the Open University of Mauritius and equally leading several vital assignments, including the internationalization project which has an ambitious aim to onboard international students to the institution.
Dr JHUGAROO Prakash
Dr Prakash Jhugaroo joined the Open University of Mauritius in 2024 as Deputy Registrar and currently heads the Exams Unit. With over 25 years of extensive experience in the public his career journey began as an Education Officer in a private secondary school, and he later served in a State Secondary School. His roles as Exhibition Officer and, ultimately, Manager in a parastatal body, have equipped him with a wealth of professional knowledge and skills. He holds a First-Class Bachelor of Fine Arts (Applied) Degree from the M.S. University of Baroda, India, a Master of Business Administration from the University of Mauritius and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from the Open University of Mauritius. His passion for creativity, innovation, quality and excellence has culminated in numerous accolades. Thus, he was a Gold Awardee at the National Productivity and Quality Convention (NPQC) (Mauritius) on two successive occasions in 2018 and 2019 and a Silver Awardee at the International Convention for Quality Control Circle (Tokyo, Japan). He was also, together with his team, declared the Grand Winner of the 2019 edition.
Dr JUGMOHUN Assish
Dr Assish Jugmohun is a holder of a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA), MBA (General Management, MSc (Human Resources Management) and BSc (Mathematics and Statistics). He joined the Open University in 2013 and has been heading the Partnership and Collaboration Unit. As at to date, OU has managed to secure and strengthen local, regional and international network. OU currently works with several prestigious international partners for e.g Imperial College, London (UK) and Royal College of Physician of Edinburg (UK). In his current position at OU, he is responsible for fostering cutting-edge collaboration across academia and industry.
Mr LALLBAHADOOR Mohunlall
Mr Lallbahadoor Mohunlall has more than thirty years of experience in the field of Engineering. He joined the ex- MCA as Technician and gradually climbed the ladder to reach the post of Senior Technical Executive Engineering in the year 2016. He is presently responsible to lead the Engineering and technology services unit and report to the Director Multimedia and ICT services.
He has witnessed the transition of technology from Analog to digital. He received Advance professional Training in the field of Video signal processing in television at Deutsche Weller Germany. He got factory training at Sony England. He also received an Advance professional training as trainers in the field of TV Engineering at Deutsche Weller Germany. As AI and automation continue to reshape the professional landscape, the imperative for continuous
learning and skill development has never been more pronounced.
The future of work will be defined by our ability to adapt, harness technology, and prioritise human potential.
Mrs MAUNICK Surrita Devi
Mrs Surrita Devi Maunick is an experienced Human Resource professional with a strong academic foundation and a diverse career spanning over 25 years. She holds an MBA and a BSc (Hons) in Human Resource Management and Development from the Open University of Mauritius. Sunita embarked on her career in 1997 at the Open University of Mauritius (formerly MCA) as a Clerical/Higher Clerical Officer in the HR Department. Over the years, she advanced through various roles, including Executive Officer and Office Management Officer, gaining extensive hands-on experience in HR functions and operations.
With a deep understanding of HR policies, regulations, and best practices, particularly within the Public Sector, Sunita is well-versed in the latest trends in human resource management. Her ability to apply these insights strategically enables her to drive employee engagement, improve organisational effectiveness, and contribute to the long-term success of the University. As the current Human Resource Management Officer, Sunita plays a critical role in the planning, coordination, and implementation of HR strategies, policies, systems, and processes, ensuring alignment with the University’s overarching goals and objectives. As an HR professional, she firmly believes that investing in people is key to fostering innovation, achieving organisational growth, and maintaining sustainable success.
Mr NUNKOO Satyaprakash
“Mr Satyaprakash Nunkoo is a fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. Over the last twenty five years, he has dedicated his career in several Government Institutions, gaining extensive know-how in various fields including Statistics, Audit and Financial Reporting. In his current position at OU, he is responsible for managing the financial operations, developing financial policies, ensuring compliance with regulations and preparing financial reports for strategic decision-making. He advocates for transparent financial practices, emphasizing the importance of accountability in managing funds.”
Mr PATTEN Viswanaden Sooprayen
Mr. Patten Viswanaden Sooprayen currently serves as the Head of Graphics, Publishing, and Printing, as well as the Team Leader of Quality Assurance at the Open University. Mr. Sooprayen brings over 33 years of professional expertise to his roles, showcasing proven leadership and unwavering dedication to excellence. Mr. Patten began his career at the ex-Mauritius College of the Air (MCA) in 1991 as a Senior Graphics Artist. Within a year, he was promoted to Head of Graphics, Printing, and Photography, a role he has successfully held since 1992. His contributions have been pivotal in shaping the institution’s outputs and ensuring the quality of its processes. Mr. Patten’s academic achievements reflect his commitment to professional growth. He holds an MBA in Operations Management from the Indira Gandhi National Open University
(IGNOU), India; an MPhil in Publishing Studies from the University of Stirling, Scotland; and a Brevet de Technicien Superieur en Industries Graphiques from the École Supérieure Estienne des Arts et Industries Graphiques, Paris. These qualifications underpin his extensive expertise in his field.
A Certified Quality Lead Auditor since 2001, Mr. Sooprayen has been instrumental in advancing quality management at the Open University. As the Management Representative (MR) for ISO 9001, he successfully led the institution’s transition from ISO 9001:2008 to ISO 9001:2015 in 2018. Since 2014, he has spearheaded the Quality Assurance Team, ensuring adherence to the highest standards across institutional operations. He also chaired the
committee that produced the university’s Self-Evaluation Report, a key milestone in the institution’s first-cycle Quality Audit in 2018.
In addition to his operational contributions, Mr. Patten has played a strategic role in the university’s development. He was instrumental in formulating the Strategic Plan 2017–2025 and is currently leading efforts for its upcoming iteration.
Highlighting his dedication to education, Mr. Patten holds a Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (CLTHE), is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), and is a Certified Associate of BlackBoard Academy.