Odisha Schools to Conduct Home Visits for Absent Students

In a bid to safeguard child rights and curb dropout rates, the Directorate of Elementary Education, Odisha, has directed school authorities to personally visit the homes of students absent for a week or more.

The initiative, communicated through the School and Mass Education Department to all District Education Officers (DEOs) and Block Education Officers (BEOs), mandates teachers to identify irregular attendance and engage directly with families to understand the reasons behind prolonged absence.

The advisory follows a communication from the Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR) dated December 26, 2025, emphasising the need for proactive measures to ensure every child’s right to education.

Officials believe the move will strengthen the bond between schools and families, help address socio‑economic challenges, and ensure that children remain connected to the classroom.

Teachers are expected to report findings to authorities, enabling targeted interventions where necessary.

This directive marks a significant step in Odisha’s ongoing efforts to improve educational outcomes and reduce dropout rates across the state.