NESTS and UNICEF Launch TALASH Program for Tribal Students; Odisha Teachers Trained for Rollout

Bhubaneswar: The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), in collaboration with UNICEF India, has launched TALASH — Tribal Aptitude, Life Skills, and Self-Esteem Hub — a first-of-its-kind digital program exclusively designed for students of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs).

Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the program is set to benefit more than 1.38 lakh tribal students nationwide. Through psychometric assessments, TALASH will help students identify their aptitudes, receive career guidance, and strengthen critical life skills including communication, problem-solving, and self-confidence.

As part of its Odisha rollout, a three-day training program was held in Bhubaneswar for 94 teachers from 47 EMRSs. The sessions equipped teachers with tools to provide career counselling, build students’ self-esteem, and prepare individualized career cards. Teachers also learned to integrate TALASH resources to help learners make informed choices about academic streams and career opportunities.

Speaking at the valedictory session, Pranati Patro, Joint Director of OMTES and Deputy Secretary, SC & ST Development Department, lauded the initiative and emphasized the transformative role of teachers. “Empowering tribal students with the right skills and guidance is essential for their holistic growth. Teachers must not only guide but also inspire students as role models and mentors,” she said.

Certificates were awarded to the participating teachers, who pledged their commitment to implement the TALASH program in their respective schools and support the aspirations of tribal learners.

With this initiative, Odisha takes a significant step toward strengthening tribal education and ensuring that students from remote areas are prepared for future opportunities in higher education, employment, and entrepreneurship.