Odisha Announces Major Initiatives to Boost Quality of Polytechnic Education

Bhubaneswar: The Skill Development & Technical Education Department of Odisha has announced three major initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of diploma-level education in the state. The announcements, made during an event graced by the Minister  Sampad Chandra Swain, include the publication of the 2024 Polytechnic Rankings, the inauguration of integrated websites for key educational bodies, and the launch of a life skills training program for government polytechnic students. These initiatives symbolize the state’s commitment to a “Viksit Odisha”.

To ensure the quality of diploma-level education, the department has released the third edition of the Polytechnic Rankings. The Quality Council of India (QCI), a government organization based in New Delhi, conducted the ranking exercise. The evaluation process involved multiple stages, including field visits to 132 polytechnics across the state. The rankings, covering both government and private polytechnics, are based on government-approved parameters. This initiative aims to foster healthy competition among polytechnics, ultimately benefiting the students of Odisha.

Another key initiative is the inauguration of integrated websites for the State Council for Technical Education & Vocational Training (SCTE&VT), Directorate of Technical Education & Training (DTE&T), Central Placement Cell (CPC), and the Department of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (DSDE). Previously, each organization maintained separate websites despite data interdependency. The new integrated platform, initiated by SCTE&VT, allows for efficient data exchange and one-stop information access. Each organization will retain ownership of their respective websites, with relevant data shared across platforms. The CPC website now includes features for registration of aspiring students, alumni, and recruiting agencies, automating the recruitment process.

Recognizing the importance of life skills such as communication, entrepreneurship, and innovation for employability, the department has partnered with the renowned organization MacMillan to provide life skills training. This program, starting from the 2024-25 session, will be implemented over three years, targeting students in their second and third years. Professionally trained trainers from MacMillan will deliver the training at each government polytechnic. The initiative aims to enhance employability and foster an entrepreneurial mindset among students.

Principal Secretary Usha Padhee, members from QCI, senior officers from the department, and principals from government ITIs and polytechnics attended the event. These initiatives reflect Odisha’s dedication to providing quality education, improving student services, and fostering the holistic development of polytechnic students, paving the way for a brighter future.