Odisha Govt Approves ₹104 Crore Infrastructure Boost for 90 Aided Colleges

Bhubaneswar: In a significant step towards enhancing higher education infrastructure, the Odisha government has approved a ₹104 crore development project for 90 grant-in-aid private colleges across the state. The initiative aims to improve physical infrastructure through new construction and renovation efforts.

According to an official release, the funds will be allocated for student hostels, additional classrooms, common rooms, libraries, laboratories, computer labs, multipurpose halls, administrative buildings, and toilets. The project also includes repair and restoration work to upgrade existing facilities.

The funds will be disbursed in phases, with 33% of the total amount released in the first phase. Upon receiving the initial installment, college principals will initiate construction through state government executing agencies or central government enterprises. They will also be required to submit a Utilization Certificate to the Higher Education Department upon completion of the initial phase.

A virtual meeting was held in the conference hall of the Higher Education Department, where principals and students of grant-in-aid private colleges expressed their gratitude to Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj for the initiative.

Speaking at the event, Minister Suraj stated, “Our primary goal is to strengthen college infrastructure and provide quality education to students. We are taking various steps to bring revolutionary changes to the higher education sector and ensure the holistic development of students.”

He emphasized that the project’s implementation would significantly enhance the quality of education in grant-in-aid private colleges across Odisha. The Minister also urged students to focus on their studies and make the best use of improved facilities to build a bright future.

Additionally, he addressed various challenges faced by colleges and assured that the government remains committed to resolving their concerns.