Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is all set to revise the Class X curriculum and begin preparations for integrating the Plus Two level into a unified education framework, with a focus on improving students’ readiness for higher secondary education and employment opportunities.
As part of the proposed changes, the state plans to introduce Plus Two courses through open schools, enabling students up to the age of 18 years to access free education. The initiative is aimed at expanding access to higher secondary education and providing students with opportunities to develop job-oriented skills.
The government has also expressed concern over the rising expenditure incurred by students preparing for competitive examinations. Steps are therefore being planned to provide free digital learning resources to students.
The Council of Higher Secondary Education (CHSE), Odisha, has been directed to take steps towards providing free digital education facilities. The government has allocated Rs 10 crore to the CHSE for the initiative. Another major proposal is to make Plus Two Commerce and Science education available in Odia, enabling students to pursue higher secondary studies in their mother tongue.
The government is also working towards bringing Classes X and 12 under a single board, as part of efforts to streamline the school education system. A decision on the location of the proposed board office is expected to be taken soon.
Officials said the reforms are intended to ensure that students acquire practical and professional skills while pursuing Plus Two education. The objective is to help students become better prepared for employment after completing higher secondary education.
The proposed changes are expected to strengthen access to education, reduce the financial burden on students and provide greater opportunities for skill development and career preparation.
Speaking on the proposed reforms, School and Mass Education Commissioner-cum-Secretary N. Thirumala Naik said the government is focusing on creating an education system that equips students with skills and enables them to pursue employment opportunities after completing Plus Two.