Odisha Launches Shaktishree: Women Mentors for Girl Students
The Odisha Department of Higher Education has launched the Shaktishree Initiative to empower girl students across Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs).
As part of this program, distinguished women professionals, known as Shakti Apas, will serve as mentors, role models, and resource persons for female students.
These mentors will engage regularly with students, focusing on safety, empowerment, and overall well‑being.
District‑level nodal college principals have been tasked with identifying and nominating suitable women professionals, with exceptions in a few districts.
The initiative aims to build a structured support system, strengthen confidence, address safety concerns, and foster a gender‑sensitive academic environment.
By embedding mentorship directly into Odisha’s college network, the Higher Education Department is taking a proactive step toward ensuring inclusive and supportive higher education for women.
