Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi underscored the pivotal role of education in shaping a prosperous Odisha as the state approaches its centenary in 2036. He made these remarks during the centenary celebrations of Bhimpur Advanced (Unnita) High School in Ganjam district on Sunday.
The Chief Minister began by paying tribute to the school’s founder, the revered teacher Bhagwan Panda. Majhi noted that Bhimpur High School, which commenced its journey on March 15, 1924, has been a beacon of knowledge in the region for over 100 years.
Reflecting on the history of education in India, Majhi discussed the traditional Guru-Shishya system and contrasted it with the British-era education policy, which, he said, primarily focused on creating clerks and officers rather than fostering true knowledge and character. He lamented the continuation of this system even after India gained independence.
“The true purpose of education is to nurture responsible citizens who can contribute to building a strong society,” Majhi asserted. He commended the changes brought about in India’s education system under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, particularly the introduction of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Expressing concern over its delayed implementation in Odisha, he announced that the state government has now adopted the NEP, with expectations for significant improvements in the education sector.
To further strengthen the educational framework, Chief Minister Majhi announced the launch of pre-primary education, or ‘Sishubatika,’ aligned with the NEP. He also introduced the ‘Skilled Odisha Mission,’ aimed at enhancing basic literacy and numeracy, which will facilitate smoother transitions for students to higher education.
Majhi sharply criticized the previous government’s ‘5T school’ initiative, calling it a “farce” and citing the fact that only 16 percent of schools had internet connectivity—far below the claims of digital transformation. He stated that no meaningful efforts were made to enhance the quality of education.
In a significant development, Majhi unveiled the ‘Godavarish Mishra Adarsh Pratya Vidyalaya Yojana,’ a new scheme focused on the development of primary schools. The initiative promises to ensure that primary schools are equipped with qualified teachers and improved infrastructure at the panchayat level.
Addressing the issue of dropout rates among tribal children, Majhi introduced the ‘Madhosing Hath Kharcha Yojana,’ aimed at curbing dropout rates and providing financial support. He also highlighted his government’s commitment to education by noting a record allocation of Rs 31,000 crore for primary education in the current budget. Furthermore, he mentioned the ‘Chief Minister’s Poshan Yojana,’ which provides nutritious mid-day meals to students. He expressed confidence that these initiatives will greatly improve the education system in Odisha in the years to come.
Responding to requests from Bhimpur High School, Chief Minister Majhi assured that the school would be recognized as a heritage institution. He instructed the District Magistrate to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for infrastructure development and pledged to meet the school’s legitimate demands with necessary government funding.
Addressing the gathering, Majhi assured the people that his government had fulfilled all promises made during the elections. “We are working for everyone—farmers, women, youth, and the poor. Large-scale industries are set to be established in Ganjam district with investments exceeding Rs 1 lakh crore, creating ample job opportunities for the local youth,” he said.
Majhi further emphasized that his government would focus on the region’s development and promised to pay special attention to local demands. He also announced that the Chief Minister’s Grievance Cell would be stationed in Berhampur to address public concerns directly.
During the event, the Chief Minister invited four alumni of Bhimpur High School and family members of its founder to the stage for felicitation. He also honored five students who had achieved excellence at the district and state levels.
The event saw speeches by Chikiti MLA Manoranjan Dyan Samantara and Digapahandi MLA Sidhant Mohapatra. Notable attendees included Khallikot MLA Purna Chandra Sethy, Ganjam Collector and District Magistrate Dibya Jyoti Parida, Samantiapalli Sarpanch, and other local leaders.
Radhakrishna Nayak, an alumnus of the school, delivered the welcome speech, while Principal Santosh Nayak presented the annual report. Teacher Chittaranjan Samantray concluded the event with the vote of thanks.
