Odisha CM unveils education reforms at Keonjhar school events, pushes for AI skills

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted the importance of quality education rooted in Indian culture and the need for developing life skills among students during his visits to two educational institutions in Keonjhar district on Sunday.

Attending the annual festival of Baniapat Saraswati Shishu Vidya Mandir and the golden jubilee celebrations of PM Shri Government High School in Sirigida, the CM announced key government initiatives aimed at transforming the state’s education system.

At the Baniapat Shishu Mandir event, Majhi praised the Saraswati Shishu Mandir network for its revolutionary role in education, especially in remote areas where government schools were absent. “These institutions not only provide high-quality education but also instill Indian culture and values, shaping students into better human beings,” he said. He noted that Shishu Mandir schools emphasize a conducive learning environment and have consistently produced excellent board exam results.

The CM outlined the BJP-led government’s efforts to enhance education since taking office. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance, Odisha has implemented the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, introducing the State Curriculum Framework (SCERT) modelled after the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). Starting next academic year, free textbooks will be provided to all students up to Class 10. Additionally, high-quality course materials will be developed by experts to improve standards.

Majhi stressed the holistic development of students, saying, “Education is the key to dispelling ignorance and fostering knowledge. Our focus is on skilled teachers, infrastructure, and an environment that promotes creativity and self-reliance.” He also mentioned initiatives for tribal students, including education in mother tongues like Santali, and warned about the responsible use of mobile internet and social media. “While technology is a goldmine of information, it can cause more harm than good if misused. Students should learn skills like coding, online banking, and AI to stay ahead,” he added.

Odisha’s new Artificial Intelligence policy was highlighted as a step to prepare youth for global competition, encouraging students to acquire multiple skills for future success.

Before that, at the golden jubilee of PM Shri Government High School, Sirigida, the CM reiterated the need to uncover hidden talents. “Every child has innate abilities that must be nurtured alongside academics. In this tech-driven era, updating skills is crucial,” he said. He explained that NEP 2020 goes beyond job-oriented education, focusing on life skills, creativity, and values.

Majhi detailed government measures to boost education quality, including the Madho Singh Haath Kharcha scheme for tribal children, multilingual education to reduce dropout rates, and the establishment of Bal Vatikas (pre-schools) in 45,000 schools with trained caregivers. Secondary schools are introducing aspirational curricula covering IT coding, book reviews, and sports-based life skills.

He emphasised problem-solving attitudes, quick decision-making, and communication skills as essential. “Complaining won’t help; a solution-oriented mindset will,” he advised students.

The CM noted the state’s record education budget of Rs 41,273 crore – 14.2% of the total budget and 3.9% of GDP – with a major portion for primary education, making Odisha one of the top states in education spending.

The events were attended by dignitaries, including MLAs Akhila Chandra Nayak and Dr Fakir Mohan Nayak, BJP district president Shukadeb Mahanta, and school officials.

These announcements reflect the government’s commitment to equitable, high-quality education, aligning with national goals for a developed India.