Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday described Sundargram Government High School as not merely an educational institution but a key center for the social and intellectual development of the region. He was speaking at the Platinum Jubilee celebrations marking the completion of 75 years of the school in Sundargram under Cuttack district.
Reflecting on the institution’s journey, the Chief Minister said that completing 75 years is a remarkable milestone achieved through the dedication of educationists and selfless contributors. He paid tribute to the founders and all those who played a role in shaping the institution.
He said that the small sapling of education planted seven and a half decades ago has now grown into a strong tree, providing knowledge and guidance to thousands of students.
Highlighting the role of alumni, Majhi noted that the success of an institution is best reflected in the achievements of its former students. He said many alumni of the school are currently serving society in prominent positions, bringing pride to the institution. He urged present students to follow their example and strive for excellence.
Emphasising the broader purpose of education, the Chief Minister said it is not limited to academic learning but is essential for character building and the development of values. He encouraged students to focus on skill development, creativity, and innovation in line with modern-day requirements. He also advised them to limit excessive use of mobile phones and social media.
Speaking on government initiatives, Majhi said the state is implementing the National Education Policy 2020 with a focus on quality and skill-based education. He highlighted the expansion of digital learning, smart classrooms, and online teaching methods. Efforts are also being made to strengthen rural education through schemes such as the Godabarisha Mishra Adarsha Prathamika Vidyalaya Yojana.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister felicitated four students of the school for their achievements in various fields and unveiled a commemorative souvenir marking the Platinum Jubilee.
He assured that the state government would consider the school’s demands and take necessary steps to address its requirements. A local resident expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for announcing Rs 450 crore for the restoration of the Prachi River.
The Chief Minister further informed that Rs 31,997 crore has been allocated to the School and Mass Education Department in the 2026–27 financial year, accounting for 10.3 per cent of the total budget. He said around 20,000 teachers have been recruited in the past one and a half years, with more appointments in the pipeline.
Addressing students, Majhi stressed that knowledge is the true source of power and urged them to identify their talents, set goals, and work diligently towards success.
Jagatsinghpur MP Dr. Bibhu Prasad Tarai called upon alumni to contribute to the development of the school and thanked them for their continued support. Niali MLA Chhabi Malik also expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for attending the event, stating that students and guardians would remain thankful for his presence.
Among those present were the eminent literary figure and former administrative officer Manoranjan Panigrahi; alumnus Sunil Kumar Sarangi; Platinum Jubilee Committee President Sushant Kumar Dash; Editor Phani Bhusan Mohanty; and School Headmistress Itishree Rout, along with teachers, alumni, and parents. The vote of thanks was delivered by Headmistress Itishree Rout.
