NIOS celebrates 35th Foundation Day; Launches Self-study material for Natyakala course

The initiative was launched by Chamu Krishna Shastry, who spoke about the importance of inclusivity in education. His address underscored the role of NIOS in facilitating accessible learning opportunities for individuals from all walks of life, particularly those who have been excluded from traditional educational systems.

The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) celebrated its 35th Foundation Day, graced by Chamu Krishna Shastry, Chairman of the Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti, as the Chief Guest. A significant highlight of the event was the release of self-study material for NIOS’s new course, ‘Natyakala’, a step forward in expanding the institute's educational offerings.

Launch of ‘ULLAS se NIOS’ Programme

In addition to releasing new course materials, the event saw the launch of the ‘ULLAS se NIOS’ initiative, aimed at educating and certifying illiterate individuals aged 15 and above. With a bold target of reaching 5 crore learners by 2027, the programme seeks to provide quality education and skill certification to adults, empowering them to lead better lives.

The initiative was launched by Chamu Krishna Shastry, who spoke about the importance of inclusivity in education. His address underscored the role of NIOS in facilitating accessible learning opportunities for individuals from all walks of life, particularly those who have been excluded from traditional educational systems.

Ceremonial Performances and Speeches

The event began with a traditional recitation of Vedic mantras and Saraswati Vandana by students from Shrimad Dayanand Kanya Gurukul Mahavidyalaya, Chotipura. The symbolic lighting of the lamp followed, marking the start of the foundation day celebrations. The Divyang students from Amar Jyoti School, Karkardooma, a NIOS study center, performed a welcome song, adding a touch of warmth and inclusion to the event.

Pankaj Arora, Chairperson of NIOS, delivered the welcome address, emphasizing NIOS's pivotal role in modern education. He highlighted the institute’s achievements over the past 35 years, focusing on its commitment to providing flexible learning solutions and addressing the diverse educational needs of students across India.

Celebrating NIOS Student Success Stories

A key feature of the Foundation Day event was the sharing of success stories by former NIOS students, who have gone on to excel in various fields. Tejas N, a swimmer who has won 29 gold and 5 silver medals, spoke about how NIOS provided him with the flexibility to pursue both his education and athletic career simultaneously. Moitri Sarma, a gold medalist in Taekwondo, shared her journey of balancing sports with her studies through NIOS’s open learning model.

Among the other inspiring speakers was Madhu, a motivational speaker and transgender rights advocate. Madhu reflected on how NIOS’s open schooling system allowed them to pursue their dreams and advocate for marginalized communities.

Documentary and Exhibition on NIOS’s Journey

The event also featured a screening of a documentary chronicling NIOS’s remarkable 35-year journey in the field of education. An exhibition showcasing the various courses and textbooks offered by the institute was set up, allowing guests to explore the range of educational opportunities provided by NIOS.

The 35th Foundation Day of NIOS was a memorable occasion, marked by the launch of new initiatives, the sharing of success stories, and a celebration of the institute's contributions to education. With a continued focus on inclusive, flexible learning, NIOS is set to further its mission of reaching millions of learners across India and beyond in the years to come.

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