Delhi Schools Face Backlash Nios Students From Science Commerce Stream

The Government School Teachers’ Association has urged Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood to remove restrictions on students passing class 10 through the National Institute of Open Schooling, alleging that the current admission policy for class 11 in government schools discriminates against them.

In a representation submitted to the minister, the association said National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) students are currently barred from seeking admission to the science and commerce streams in Delhi government schools, irrespective of their academic performance.

The teachers’ body argued that NIOS, an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Education, is recognised by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) and other national regulatory bodies, making the restrictions difficult to justify.

According to the association, even students who secure high marks in mathematics, science and other subjects through NIOS are denied admission to the two streams solely on the basis of the board.

It also raised concerns over conditions imposed on NIOS students seeking admission to the humanities stream, saying those unable to meet prescribed percentage requirements are often denied admission, leaving many from economically weaker sections without opportunities to continue formal schooling.

The association said such restrictions were contrary to the principle of equal educational opportunity and pointed out that NIOS qualifications are accepted for admission to universities and professional courses, including engineering and medical programmes, subject to eligibility criteria.

In its representation, the teachers’ body requested the minister to direct the Directorate of Education to allow NIOS students to apply for science and commerce streams on the basis of merit and subject-specific eligibility criteria, similar to students from other recognised boards.

It also sought the removal of what it described as a blanket restriction on NIOS students, relaxation of admission conditions for the humanities stream, and the issuance of a circular clarifying that NIOS certificates are fully recognised for admission purposes.

The association further urged the government to constitute a committee to review the existing admission policy and address provisions that it said adversely affect students from non-traditional educational backgrounds. Education, it said, should serve as a tool for empowerment and social mobility, and students who have completed their secondary education through a recognised national board should not face barriers that limit their academic choices and future prospects.