100 Language Labs to be established in high schools for tribal students in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: As a tribute to the rich cultural heritage woven by tribal communities, the Odisha government has embarked on a mission to illuminate the stories of tribal freedom fighters in schools and Gram Panchayats (GPs). The initiative aims to make this vital content accessible to tribal youth across the state.

Sudam Marndi, Minister of School and Mass Education and Revenue and Disaster Management, emphasized the uniqueness embedded in tribal languages, cultures, and costumes. He expressed his conviction that tribal people are not only bringing glory to the state but also contributing significantly to various fields at the national level.

He was speaking at the concluding day of the two-day Tribal Poets Meet organized at the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Research and Training Institute (SCSTRTI). Minister Marndi urged the youth to actively participate in such platforms dedicated to celebrating tribal identity.

The event featured the recitation of poems by 23 tribal poets representing diverse communities. The participants included 5 from the Ho community, 5 from the Mundari community, 6 from the Santali community, 2 from the Khadia community, 2 from the Kisan community, 1 from the Bhumija community, 1 from the Oraon community, and 1 poet from the Munda community.

Sharing about the various government initiatives implemented in the state various, Roopa Roshan Sahoo, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, unveiled plans to establish 100 tribal language labs in high schools for tribal students.

Additionally, the department aims to create three photo books illustrating the transformations in tribal lifestyles, reaffirming its commitment to the progress and preservation of tribal culture.