Odisha Government to Revolutionize Education: Model Schools in Every Panchayat

Bhubaneswar: In a landmark initiative aimed at transforming the educational landscape of Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced that the state government will establish a model school in every panchayat across the state. These model schools, to be named after Odisha's first Education Minister, Godabarisha Mishra, are part of a broader mission to uplift the standard of education and ensure that every child in Odisha has access to quality learning. 

Speaking at the Teacher’s Day event on Thursday, Majhi emphasized the importance of these model schools in bridging the educational gap in rural areas. "Our government is committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of their background or location, receives a quality education that prepares them for the future," he said. 

A Model School in Every Panchayat: A Game-Changer for Rural Education 

Odisha, with over 6,700 panchayats, will soon witness the rollout of this ambitious project. Each model school will serve as a beacon of quality education in rural areas, offering modern facilities, experienced teachers, and a curriculum that aligns with national standards. The schools will not only focus on academic excellence but also emphasize extracurricular activities, providing students with a well-rounded education. 

The decision to name these schools after Godabarisha Mishra, a pioneering figure in Odisha’s education system, reflects the government's commitment to honoring the state's educational heritage while advancing toward a brighter future. 

Madho Singh Haath Kharch Yojana: Supporting Tribal Students 

In another significant announcement, Majhi unveiled the 'Madho Singh Haath Kharch Yojana,' a financial assistance program aimed at supporting tribal students. Under this scheme, each student from the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category will receive Rs 5,000 annually. The initiative is expected to benefit approximately 3 lakh students and is designed to address the alarming dropout rates among tribal students by providing them with the resources they need to continue their education. 

"The Madho Singh Haath Kharch Yojana is a step towards empowering our tribal students. We understand the financial challenges many of these families face, and this initiative will help reduce the dropout rate and ensure that students can continue their education without economic constraints," Majhi remarked. 

Integrating with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 

Majhi also highlighted that the Odisha government is aligning its education policies with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The NEP aims to overhaul India's education system by focusing on holistic development, critical thinking, and a more flexible curriculum. Odisha’s move to set up model schools in every panchayat is a significant step toward realizing this vision. 

"We are not just building schools; we are building the future of our state. Our education system will be designed to create citizens who are not only knowledgeable but also culturally aware and socially responsible," Majhi said. 

Culture-Based Education: A New Era of Learning 

Looking ahead, Majhi emphasized that the Odisha government will focus on integrating culture-based education into the curriculum. Recognizing the rich cultural heritage of the state, this approach aims to instill a sense of pride and identity among students while preparing them for the global stage. 

"Education is not just about textbooks; it's about understanding who we are, where we come from, and where we are going. Our education system will increasingly reflect this philosophy in the coming days," Majhi added. 

Conclusion: A Bold Vision for Odisha's Future 

With these announcements, the Odisha government has demonstrated a bold vision for the state's future. The establishment of model schools in every panchayat and the introduction of financial aid for tribal students are both crucial steps toward a more equitable and forward-looking education system. As these initiatives unfold, they hold the promise of transforming the lives of millions of students across the state, paving the way for a brighter, more educated Odisha.