Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has approved a ₹104 crore infrastructure development project for 90 grant-in-aid private colleges (Aided Colleges) across the state. The initiative aims to enhance the physical infrastructure of these institutions through new construction and renovation projects.
According to an official press release, the funds will be utilized for the development of student hostels, additional classrooms, common rooms, libraries, laboratories, computer labs, multipurpose halls, administrative buildings, and toilets. The project also includes provisions for repair and restoration work to improve existing facilities.
The approved funds will be disbursed in phases, with 33% of the total amount being released in the first phase. After receiving the initial installment, college principals will initiate construction work through state government executing agencies or central government enterprises. They will also be required to submit a Utilization Certificate to the Higher Education Department upon completion of the initial phase.
A virtual meeting was held today in the conference hall of the Higher Education Department, where principals and students of grant-in-aid private colleges expressed their gratitude to Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj for the initiative.
Speaking at the event, Minister Suraj stated, “Our primary goal is to strengthen college infrastructure and provide quality education to students. We are taking various steps to bring revolutionary changes to the higher education sector and ensure the holistic development of students.”
He further emphasized that the implementation of this project would significantly improve the infrastructure of grant-in-aid private colleges across Odisha. The Minister also encouraged students to focus on their education to build a bright future.
Additionally, he discussed the prompt resolution of various challenges faced by the colleges and assured that the government remains committed to addressing their concerns.
The meeting was attended by officials from the Higher Education Department, principals of aided colleges, and student representatives.
