Prof Akhilesh Mishra takes over as NIOS chairman, focuses on teacher training reforms

Professor Akhilesh Mishra assumed charge as the new Chairman of the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) on July 22 and began his tenure with a detailed review of key programs at the institute's headquarters.

Among his priorities was the mandatory six-month Bridge Course designed for primary school teachers holding BEd degrees.

During his interactions with senior officials and department heads, Prof Mishra highlighted the need to improve the course's inclusivity and ensure the content is both practical and easily accessible.

“This initiative is pivotal to enhancing the teaching standards and equipping educators with the necessary skills to foster a better learning environment,” he said, underlining the importance of making learning materials user-friendly and relevant.

He also called for greater integration of modern educational tools to help teachers adopt updated teaching methodologies, signaling a broader effort to align NIOS programs with current educational needs.

In addition to the bridge course, Prof Mishra reviewed the functioning of NIOS regional centers across the country and explored ways to enhance their reach and impact.

He gathered feedback from officials and indicated that new initiatives could be introduced to benefit millions of NIOS learners.

The meeting reflected a forward-looking agenda aimed at improving both teacher training and learner support systems.

Prof Mishra’s leadership marks a renewed focus on innovation, accessibility, and inclusivity in open schooling, with an emphasis on strengthening NIOS’s role as a national leader in flexible education.