NIOS Expands Inclusive Education: Partnership with NCERT & New Leadership

In a move reinforcing its commitment to inclusive and accessible education, NIOS has recently taken two significant steps — entering a collaborative agreement with NCERT and appointing a new chairman with a focus on empowering educators.

1. NIOS Partners with NCERT to Boost Accessibility for Learners with Disabilities

This June, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), NIOS, and NCERT signed a groundbreaking tripartite agreement. Through this partnership:

• Special schools under Deendayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS) will be recognized as Special Accredited Institutions for Education of the Disabled (SAIEDs) by NIOS. These centers will facilitate admissions, examinations, and tailored study resources for learners with disabilities.
• NCERT will lead the revamp of curriculum and textbooks to make them aligned with NEP 2020, emphasizing accessibility, relevance, and inclusive pedagogy.
• A joint coordination committee will monitor the implementation, ensuring effective support and outreach.
• NIOS has also introduced Indian Sign Language as a new secondary-level subject — a first of its kind initiative. The Indian Express

This move heralds a major leap in making inclusive education a systemic priority rather than an additional feature.

2. NIOS Welcomes New Chairman: Prof. Akhilesh Mishra

On July 23, 2025, Professor Akhilesh Mishra assumed office as the new Chairman of NIOS. In his first review meeting, he emphasized:

• Elevating the 6-month Bridge Course for B.Ed-qualified educators through enhanced practicality and inclusivity.
• Enhancing accessibility of learning materials, ensuring they resonate with diverse learner needs.
• Using modern tools and outreach across regional NIOS centers to broaden impact and effectiveness. India Today

His leadership signals a renewed focus on teacher empowerment, accessibility, and institutional modernization.

Why These Updates Matter

These developments bring NIOS closer to its vision of inclusive education — empowering learners and educators alike, especially those underserved by conventional schooling.

In Summary

NIOS continues to lead in inclusive education — aligning resources with national policies (NEP 2020), and strengthening leadership-driven innovations. From recognizing special schools to enriching educator training, the institute is setting new benchmarks for accessibility and flexibility in India’s education system.