Father Kunnunkal, Open Schooling Pioneer & Former CBSE Chairman, Passes Away at 99

• Renowned educationist Father Thomas V. Kunnunkal, former CBSE chairman and founder of NIOS, passed away in Delhi at 99.
• A Padma Shri recipient, he championed open schooling, making education accessible to millions through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS).
• He revolutionized CBSE during his 1980-1987 tenure, transforming it into a national standard for schools.
• Father Kunnunkal also served as Principal of St. Xavier's School, Delhi, and was known for his simplicity and dedication to underprivileged children.
• Born in Alappuzha, Kerala, he dedicated his life to education, believing in character building over mere exam passing.

Why It Matters: Father Kunnunkal, a visionary educationist, leaves a lasting legacy through CBSE reforms and NIOS.