Odisha Leverages Alumni Power to Transform School Infrastructure and Student Welfare

In a landmark move to strengthen school development across Odisha, the inaugural Governing Body Meeting of Panchasakha Shiksha Setu (PSS) was convened under the leadership of Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja.

The meeting spotlighted the pivotal role of alumni in enhancing educational infrastructure and quality, with 1,569 projects worth Rs 26 crore already approved across 25 districts.

Ahuja emphasised the “invaluable” contributions of alumni, noting that their support—combined with matching government funds—has created a collaborative model for progress.

Among the key initiatives greenlit was a financial literacy program for students in Classes VI to X at PM SHRI schools, to be implemented in partnership with the National Centre for Financial Education (NCFE).

The Governing Body also fast-tracked the development of 51 heritage schools under the Aitihya Vidyalaya initiative, aiming to preserve cultural legacy while modernising facilities.

Additionally, CSR-backed proposals for constructing mid-day meal halls were approved to bolster student welfare.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary Shalini Pandit underscored the importance of sustained alumni engagement, while the meeting drew participation from senior officials across education, tribal development, and district administrations.

With its annual budget and program roadmap now approved, PSS is poised to deepen alumni-government synergy and usher in a new era for Odisha’s schools.