The Odisha Government has approved the upgradation of 67 primary schools into upper primary schools across 22 districts, aiming to improve access to quality education for children in rural and remote areas. The initiative is expected to reduce travel distances for students, strengthen school infrastructure, and expand educational opportunities closer to their homes.

The School and Mass Education Department has directed the Odisha School Education Programme Authority (OSEPA) to begin the upgradation process by ensuring that all schools are equipped with the required infrastructure, classrooms, teaching staff, and other essential facilities as per government norms.

Dhenkanal to Get the Highest Number of Upgraded Schools

According to the official notification, Dhenkanal will receive the highest number of upgraded schools, with 12 primary schools being converted into upper primary institutions. Bargarh and Jajpur will each see seven schools upgraded, while Nuapada will have six schools upgraded. Kalahandi will receive five upgraded schools, followed by Mayurbhanj, where four schools will be converted.

The remaining schools are spread across several other districts, including Balangir, Puri, Nayagarh, Baleswar, Jagatsinghpur, Deogarh, Koraput, Malkangiri, Cuttack, Ganjam, Jharsuguda, Kendrapada, Rayagada, Sambalpur, and Sundargarh, ensuring wider geographical coverage across the state.

Focus on Rural and Remote Students

The state government said the decision is intended to improve access to upper primary education by enabling students to continue their studies without having to travel long distances. The move is expected to particularly benefit children living in remote villages, where access to nearby upper primary schools has remained limited.

Officials believe the initiative will reduce school dropouts, ease the financial and logistical burden on families, and encourage greater enrolment and retention among students transitioning from primary to upper primary education.

OSEPA Directed to Ensure Quality Standards

In a letter addressed to the State Project Director of OSEPA, Additional Secretary Bijaylaxmi Patsani instructed officials to complete the upgradation process and ensure that all institutions meet the prescribed academic and infrastructure standards before they begin functioning as upper primary schools.

The department has emphasised the need to provide adequate classrooms, qualified teachers, learning resources, and other essential facilities to support effective teaching and learning.

Strengthening School Education in Odisha

The latest initiative forms part of the Odisha Government's broader strategy to strengthen school education by expanding educational infrastructure and improving learning outcomes across the state. By increasing the number of upper primary schools in underserved regions, the government aims to create a more inclusive education system that offers equitable access to quality schooling for every child.

Education experts say the expansion will play a crucial role in improving continuity in schooling, enhancing foundational learning, and supporting the state's long-term goal of achieving better educational outcomes, particularly in rural and tribal areas.