Bhubaneswar: The Odisha School Education Programme Authority (OSEPA) has issued detailed guidelines and a sample timetable for all government and government-aided schools from Sishu Vatika (pre-school) to Class VIII for the academic year 2026-27.
The Odisha government has begun implementing the National Education Policy (NEP-2020) at the school level. In line with the policy, the state has revised its curriculum framework and introduced new textbooks based on the Odisha Curriculum Framework for School Education-2025.
Notably, 10 bagless days will be observed, during which students will attend school without carrying bags. To reduce the burden of subjects on students and make learning more joyful and holistic, the School and Mass Education Department has prepared a new uniform timetable from Sishu Vatika (pre-school) to Class VIII. This timetable will be followed in all government and government-aided schools from the academic year 2026-27.
According to the notification, schools will function for a total of 230 days in the academic year. Out of these, 20 days will be reserved for various assessments, evaluations, and other academic-related works. Another 20 days will be utilised for annual functions, sports events, cultural programmes, and other celebrations. For students of Classes VI to VIII, one of the four vocational education periods will be dedicated as a bagless day activity, preferably on Saturdays.
After setting aside these days, the remaining 190 days will be utilised for actual teaching and learning activities. Under the new schedule, there will be seven periods every working day, resulting in 42 periods per week. Special importance has been given to core subjects such as Mathematics, Science, Arts Education, Physical Education, and Vocational Education.
Besides, two combined periods of 80 to 90 minutes have been allocated for these subjects to facilitate project work, science experiments, role plays, presentations, and practical learning. The department has also placed strong emphasis on Arts and Physical Education as per NEP-2020, with provisions for both theory and practical classes.
Separate sample timetables have been prepared for different levels and circulated to all District Education Officers with instructions for strict implementation at the school level.
Keeping in view the school education system, a timetable has been prepared from Sishu Vatika to Class VIII. School timings will be from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm from Monday to Friday. On Saturday, the school will function from 6:30 am to 12:30 pm.
This major reform is expected to bring uniformity in school functioning, reduce academic pressure on children, and promote activity-based, skill-oriented, and holistic education across the state.
