Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is working towards merging the Board of Secondary Education (BSE) and the Council of Higher Secondary Education (CHSE) into a single unified board, a senior official said at the CHSE’s 44th Foundation Day celebration here on Monday.
The proposed merger was highlighted as part of the state’s efforts to streamline the school education system and bring about further reforms in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the School and Mass Education Department, Dr N Thirumala Naik, said the state is focusing on curriculum reforms with greater emphasis on experiential learning. Steps are also being taken to prepare reference books in Odia for science-stream students to help them prepare for competitive examinations.
The Council has been provided Rs 10 crore for developing digital content to support students, he said.
The official also highlighted the state government’s focus on vocational education, saying efforts are being made to ensure that students acquire skills in at least one trade after completing Plus Two. Measures are also being taken to strengthen government vocational higher secondary schools.
Another major initiative announced at the event was the proposed introduction of Plus Two courses through open schooling under the State Institute of Open Schooling (SIOS). The Chief Minister has approved the initiative, and the courses are expected to begin in the coming days, Naik said.
Kotpad MLA Rupu Bhatra, who attended the event as the Chief Guest, praised the CHSE for its examination management and stressed the need to focus on quality education. He said the Council has played an important role in strengthening the education system and has brought significant changes in line with NEP 2020.
Director of Higher Secondary Education Niyati Pattnaik also extended her wishes to the Council on the occasion.
CHSE Chairman Mrunal Kanti Das, while delivering the welcome address, stressed the importance of foundational education and urged teachers to identify students’ talents and provide them with the necessary support to develop their abilities.
The annual report of the Council was presented by Secretary Subhrabala Behera. The dignitaries also unveiled the Council’s annual souvenir, Prajna, and felicitated the winners of a debate competition.
Students who secured distinction in various categories at the School Games Federation of India were also felicitated during the programme. Controller of Examinations Dr Prasanta Kumar Parida proposed the vote of thanks.
