India Launches Nationwide Drive to Enroll Out-of-School Children
In a pivotal move towards the ambitious goals outlined in Visit Bharat 2047 and the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL) under India’s Ministry of Education is initiating a nationwide effort to identify and enroll children who are out-of-school or have dropped out. This initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to making education accessible for all.
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims for a 100% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) from preschool to secondary education by the year 2030. However, the 2023-24 Periodic Labour Force Survey reveals a concerning statistic: almost 2 crore children aged 14-18 are not currently attending school. Additionally, around 11% of students in Grades 3-8 are out-of-school, while over 50 lakh students fail their board examinations annually.
Addressing Dropout Rates Through Open Schooling
To reach the ambitious target of 100% GER, it is crucial to reintegrate these children into the education system promptly and to implement measures that prevent further dropouts. Open schooling presents itself as a viable solution for those unable to attend traditional schools due to financial, social, or geographical barriers.
The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), recognized as the largest open school board in the world, serves as a beacon of inclusive education. It offers flexible and accessible pathways to quality schooling and skill development through open and distance learning, promoting universal access, equity, and social justice. NIOS provides flexible admissions, multiple examination opportunities, an On-Demand Examination System, vocational training aligned with job prospects, and special provisions for differently-abled learners. Its certifications hold equal value to those from national and state boards.
Strategic Engagement with States and Union Territories
As part of the initiative, the Ministry plans to collaborate closely with State and Union Territory governments to engage with out-of-school or dropout children. District-level surveys will aid NIOS in accurately identifying these children for upcoming enrollment drives. Furthermore, NIOS will introduce the “NIOS Mitra” program, a technology-enabled outreach initiative designed to mobilize communities and facilitate enrollments. This program will employ trained facilitators to identify, counsel, and support out-of-school children, with a strong emphasis on marginalized, tribal, migrant, minority, and economically disadvantaged groups. To ensure transparency and accountability, the initiative will operate within a digitally monitored framework.
Enhancing Educational Access and Quality
The Ministry’s focus extends to improving access, quality, and standardization in school education, including increasing the effectiveness of open schooling systems. NIOS currently operates over 10,800 Study and Examination Centres across the country, providing a versatile platform that accommodates learners seeking flexible options. The Ministry aims to set up at least one NIOS Study and Examination Centre in every block, further enhancing credibility and accessibility.
Key interventions will include designating PM SHRI schools, Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and Government Senior Secondary Schools as NIOS Study and Examination Centres. Additionally, the Ministry will encourage State Open School Boards to utilize government schools and recognized examination centres for NIOS assessments. Government Senior Secondary Schools in every Panchayat and Municipality will also be urged to become NIOS Study and Examination Centres, fostering inclusivity and flexibility in education.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
