Bhubaneswar: Padaraj Umakanta Nayak, Headmaster of Government High School, Alipingal, has been selected for the prestigious National Teacher Award 2026 in recognition of his contribution to school education, innovative pedagogy and promotion of science education.
Nayak began his teaching career as an Assistant Teacher at Marichpur High School, Baramundali, on February 20, 2004. During his teaching career, he has focused on making classroom learning more experiential, practical and student-centric. He has presented research papers on pedagogy of education at two international and four national conferences, reflecting his engagement with educational research and professional development.
He is also the author of Bigyanagarare Parikhya, a resource book aligned with the State Board Science textbook. The book promotes simple and practical experiments using materials available in school laboratories and homes, with the aim of making science learning accessible and engaging for students.
Nayak has developed several e-content resources and conducted lessons through YouTube live classes organised by the School and Mass Education Department, Government of Odisha. His teaching practices include Project-Based Learning, Research-Based Learning, hands-on activities, learning through dance, technology-based learning, learning through yoga, game-based learning and learning science through art.
As a State Resource Person in Physical Science and Mathematics, he has also contributed to enhancing the academic capacity of teachers and encouraging innovative approaches to science and mathematics education.
His efforts have helped nurture scientific interest among students. Under his guidance, one student participated in an international-level science event, while eight students took part in national-level science events.
Nayak has previously received the State Mukhyamantri Shikshya Puraskar-2023 and the Prakruti Bandhu Award from the Government of Odisha.
His selection for the National Teacher Award 2026 recognises his sustained efforts to promote innovative, experiential and science-oriented learning in schools.
