Bhubaneswar: In a major reform aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Odisha has revised the minimum age for admission to Class 1 to 6 years. This change, effective from the academic year 2025-26, is part of the state’s phased implementation of the NEP.
The announcement, made through a notification dated January 20, 2025, also introduced the establishment of Shishu Vatikas in all primary schools to provide pre-school education for children aged five and above. This initiative aims to strengthen foundational learning and better prepare students for formal schooling, reflecting the NEP’s emphasis on early childhood care and education.
The decision is rooted in the NEP’s restructured 5+3+3+4 academic framework, which dedicates the first five years to foundational education for children aged 3-8. This includes three years of pre-school education followed by Classes 1 and 2, fostering holistic development and ensuring readiness for advanced learning stages.
Under the revised framework:
- Shishu Vatikas will cater to children aged five, focusing on foundational literacy, numeracy, and socio-emotional development.
- Class 1 admissions will be open to children aged six years or older as of September 1 of the academic year.
Speaking about the reforms, officials emphasized that these changes align with the NEP’s vision of creating a robust foundation for lifelong learning. The initiative also supports the broader goals of the Nipun Odisha program, launched in September 2024, to ensure universal acquisition of foundational literacy and numeracy.