Centre pushes NIOS open schooling for 100% enrolment by 2030

The Centre is set to strengthen the open schooling system through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) as part of a nationwide push to bring out-of-school children back into the education system and achieve a 100% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) by 2030.The initiative, led by the Department of School Education and Literacy under the Ministry of Education, aligns with the vision of the National Education Policy 2020, which aims for universal school participation from pre-primary to secondary levels. It also supports the broader goal of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Government data underscores the scale of the challenge. According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey 2023-24, nearly 2 crore children aged 14–18 years remain out of school. In addition, around 11% of students in Classes 3 to 8 are not attending school, while over 50 lakh students fail board examinations annually.Officials stated open schooling provides a flexible pathway for students who are unable to attend regular schools due to economic, social, or geographical constraints. NIOS, regarded as the world’s largest open schooling board, offers distance education with features such as flexible admissions, multiple examination opportunities, and an on-demand exam system. Its certifications are recognised on par with other national and state education boards.As part of the plan, the Centre, in coordination with states and Union Territories, will undertake a nationwide drive to identify and enrol out-of-school and dropout children using district-level survey data.
To enhance outreach, NIOS will introduce the “NIOS Mitra” programme, a technology-driven initiative aimed at community mobilisation and enrolment facilitation. Trained volunteers will identify and counsel students, assist with admissions, and provide academic support, with a focus on marginalised groups including tribal, migrant, minority, and economically weaker sections.The government also plans to expand infrastructure to improve access and delivery. With over 10,800 study and examination centres already operational, efforts are underway to establish at least one centre in every block.Key measures include designating PM SHRI schools, Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and government senior secondary schools as NIOS study and examination centres. States will also be encouraged to utilise existing school infrastructure for conducting NIOS exams.The Ministry said the initiative aims to improve access, quality, and inclusivity in school education, while providing flexible learning opportunities to ensure that no child is left behind.