Bhubaneswar, June 29(OT Webdesk): In a key policy move to enhance early childhood education, the Odisha government has approved the appointment of ‘Sishu Sebikas’ (childcare assistants) across all pre-primary classrooms in government schools.
This initiative is part of the ongoing rollout of the National Education Policy (NEP) in the state.
The decision, announced by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, aims to ease the burden of non-teaching tasks for educators and create a nurturing environment for children aged 5–6.
Odisha has already operationalised Sishu Vatikas in approximately 45,000 primary schools this academic session, and the addition of Sishu Sebikas is expected to improve classroom engagement and foundational learning outcomes.
The assistants will be responsible for maintaining hygiene, aiding toilet usage, feeding, distributing learning materials, calming distressed children, and ensuring daily child safety.
However, they are not permitted to undertake teaching duties or administer discipline or medication.
Remuneration for Sishu Sebikas will be on par with school cooks and funded through the Samagra Shiksha scheme.
Appointments will be based on student enrolment figures and situational assessments conducted by the education department.
“This step will empower teachers to focus entirely on academic instruction while providing children with a safe, supportive space to learn and grow,” the Chief Minister stated.
