Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized the importance of knowledge and skill development in today’s rapidly changing society during his address at the 45th annual day celebrations of Surajmal Saha College in Puri.
According to an official press release, Majhi announced a grant of ₹1 crore for the improvement of the college’s infrastructure and highlighted the transformative changes in the education sector under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Addressing the students, CM Majhi stated, “Knowledge is real power, and acquiring it is the only asset in today’s world. Student life is the most creative and productive phase, shaping the future of an individual.” He stressed the need for skill development training alongside formal education to prepare youth for employment opportunities. He also mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to make one crore youth industry-ready through internships with stipends in established companies.
The Chief Minister outlined the Odisha government’s plans to revolutionize the state’s education sector. He announced the establishment of one Godavarish Mishra Adarsh Primary School in every panchayat to strengthen the foundation of primary education. “The National Education Policy 2020 and the Godavarish Mishra Adarsh Primary Schools will further strengthen our education system,” he added.
During the event, CM Majhi inaugurated newly constructed classrooms and administrative buildings at the college and laid the foundation stone for the Science and Commerce Department buildings. He also felicitated students who won medals at the South Asian Combat Championship in Kathmandu, Nepal, and excelled in the All India Coastal Trekking and Mountain Course.
State Higher Education Minister Suryavanshi Suraj, the chief speaker at the event, praised the legacy of social worker Surjamal Saha, describing him as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and dedication. He highlighted that around 50 students from the college are national-level players, calling it a matter of pride. Suraj urged students to contribute to the development and prosperity of the state and the nation through their achievements.
Satyabadi MLA Om Prakash Mishra, Pipili MLA Ashrit Patnaik, and former Puri MLA Jayant Kumar Sarangi also addressed the students, emphasizing the importance of education in shaping their future and the nation’s progress.
College Principal Prof. Brahmananda Sahu delivered the welcome address and presented the annual report, while Professor Nalini Patnaik proposed the vote of thanks. The event underscored the government’s commitment to education reforms and skill development, aiming to empower the youth for a brighter future.
