Odisha: KG to PG free education scheme boosts enrolment

The Odisha government’s KG to PG free education scheme has resulted in a significant increase in enrolment across the state, with 14,758 more students taking admission in regular undergraduate courses during the current academic season as compared to the previous year. The aspirational districts have recorded encouraging admission rates, with Kalahandi topping the list at 99.09 per cent enrolment followed by Koraput at 98.82 per cent, state Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said after a review meeting in Bhubneshwar. Gyanodaya Shiksharu Samruddhi scheme, the first of its kind free education from nursery school to post-graduation level, ensures no fees for students in government-run educational institutions.
To strengthen governance and academic leadership, the state created 48 new Principal positions across government degree colleges. With this expansion, all 66 government degree colleges in Odisha now have dedicated sanction positions for Principals, up from just 18 previously. 262 new non-teaching posts have been sanctioned across 17 state universities. Minister Suraj assured that the state is fast-tracking recruitment to address faculty shortages and  recruitment for 385 Assistant Professor (Stage-1) posts across 66 government degree colleges is currently underway. Over the past two years, the State Selection Board (SSB) completed examinations and declared results for more than 2,800 posts. Additionally, the SSB recently published notifications to fill 1,557 vacancies across various cadres this year, he said. 
Highlighting the vision of “Education for All, Higher Education for All,” Minister Suraj reaffirmed the government’s commitment to delivering accessible, high-quality learning across Odisha. He directed officials to ensure all departmental schemes and PM-USHA infrastructure projects are completed strictly within their target deadlines.