Education Eminence Conclave 2026: A Blueprint for ‘Viksit Odisha’

Addressing the Education Eminence Conclave 2026 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati underscored that the vision of "Viksit Odisha" and "Viksit Bharat" rests fundamentally on education. He asserted that modern societies are no longer shaped solely by natural resources but by the strength of their intellectual capital and creativity. For the Indian audience, this marks a significant shift toward prioritizing human capital as the primary engine of regional economic growth.

Education as the Foundation of Nation-Building

The Governor described education as the most critical pillar for a future-ready state. He noted that its role extends beyond employability, acting as a tool to:

• Reduce Poverty: By equipping youth with critical thinking and confidence.

  
  

  
  

• Bridge Inequalities: Ensuring that tribal and economically weaker sections are not left behind.

  
  

  
  

• Foster Values: Promoting social harmony and democratic values among productive citizens.

  
  

  
  

Implementation of NEP 2020 in Odisha

A major highlight of the conclave was the progress report on the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 within the state. The Governor praised the state government's comprehensive implementation, specifically focusing on:

• Mother Tongue-Based Learning: Ensuring foundational literacy is rooted in cultural identity.

  
  

  
  

• Digital Empowerment: Integrating technology to prepare students for a globalized economy.

  
  

  
  

• Multidisciplinary Education: Moving away from rigid silos to foster versatile skill sets.

  
  

  
  

Flagship Initiatives for Viksit Odisha

To reach the goal of a developed Odisha, several flagship programmes were highlighted as essential building blocks:

• Panchasakha Sikhya Setu: Aimed at strengthening the transition between educational levels.

  
  

  
  

• Godabarisha Mishra Adarsha Prathamika Vidyalaya: A scheme dedicated to creating model primary schools.

  
  

  
  

• Madho Singh Haath Kharcha: A targeted initiative to support students from vulnerable backgrounds.

  
  

  
  

The Road Ahead: Knowledge Creation

The Governor concluded that for Odisha to truly aspire to "developed" status, the greatest investment must remain in knowledge creation. By prioritizing innovation and skill development, the state is positioning its youth to be the torchbearers of the Viksit Odisha vision, ensuring that the benefits of growth reach every village and district.