Odisha Education Minister Nityananda Gond has acknowledged the alarming student dropout rate in the state and called on his department to take collective responsibility in addressing this critical issue.
During a recent press conference, Gond emphasized the urgent need for adequate school infrastructure, particularly hostels for financially poor and marginalized students.
Highlighting the significance of school infrastructure in retaining students, Minister Gond announced the state government's plans to prioritize the development of facilities for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes (SCs, STs, and OBCs). He pointed out that the lack of proper accommodations and support systems contributes significantly to the high dropout rates among these communities.
The Minister stressed the importance of implementing schemes that benefit the lowest sections of society. He pledged that the government would ensure the establishment of hostels in educational institutions for students from poor and backward classes. These initiatives aim to provide a supportive environment that encourages students to continue their education, thus reducing dropout rates.
The Odisha government plans to launch several initiatives to tackle the dropout crisis. These include:
- Building and Upgrading Hostels: Increasing the number of hostels and upgrading existing ones to provide better living conditions for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Scholarship Programs: Offering financial assistance and scholarships to students from SC, ST, and OBC communities to alleviate economic burdens and incentivize school attendance.
- Enhanced Educational Support: Providing additional academic support and resources to help students succeed in their studies and stay engaged in their educational journey.
Minister Gond emphasized that the Odisha government aims to create a more inclusive and supportive education system by addressing the infrastructure gap and social disparities. This approach ensures that all students, regardless of their socio-economic background, have equal access to quality education and personal and academic growth opportunities.
The commitment to improving educational infrastructure and reducing dropout rates is part of a broader vision to pave the way for a brighter future for Odisha's students. By fostering an environment where every child has the opportunity to succeed, the state hopes to build a stronger, more educated community that can contribute positively to its development.
As the Odisha government rolls out these initiatives, the focus remains on creating lasting changes that will support students from marginalized communities. The government aims to reduce dropout rates and significantly promote a more equitable education by ensuring that infrastructure and support systems are in place.