Bhubaneswar: In a landmark decision, the Odisha government, in light of the First World Odia Language Conference, has announced the preservation of colleges and universities established before India gained independence. This strategic move aims to safeguard the historical significance of these educational institutions for posterity.
The Higher Education Department has identified 10 colleges and 5 universities with profound historical importance for preservation as heritage sites. For this ambitious endeavor, a budget of Rs. 2 Crores has been allocated for universities, and Rs. 1 Crore for colleges, highlighting the commitment to conserving architectural treasures that hold immense cultural and historical value.
To ensure the success of this preservation initiative, the government envisions collaboration with specialized agencies such as INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage) or the State Archaeology.
Preserving these institutions goes beyond maintaining architectural marvels; it is a step towards fostering cultural awareness and understanding of historical roots among students and other stakeholders. The initiative aligns with the broader goal of promoting cultural heritage and education in the region.