Bhubaneswar: The Department of Higher Education (DHE) has directed district-level degree nodal colleges to identify and nominate distinguished women professionals as ‘Shakti Apa’ under the Shaktishree Initiative.
In a letter issued on September 1, Commissioner-cum-Secretary Aravind Agrawal to Odisha government instructed the principals of nodal colleges across the state barring Anugola, Baleshwar, Baragada, Debagada, Kalahandi, Khordha, Kendujhar and Rayagada to select suitable candidates.
According to the directive, five eminent women in each district will be chosen for the role. These Shakti Apas will act as role models, mentors and resource persons for girl students of higher educational institutions. They are expected to interact periodically with the students and guide them on issues related to safety, empowerment and overall well-being.
“In inviting reference to the subject cited above, this is to mention that under the Shaktishree Initiative, provisions have been made for identification and nomination of distinguished female professionals as “Shakti Apa” in each district. The Shakti Apas shall serve as role models, mentors, and resource persons for girl students of Higher Educational Institutions (HEls) and shall periodically interact with and mentor the students with a view to promoting their safety, empowerment, and overall well-being”, read the letter.
The move aims to provide young women pursuing higher education with accessible mentorship and inspiration from accomplished professionals in their own districts.
