Odisha Students Shun General Education: Govt Pushes Skill-Based Learning
Bhubaneswar, Oct 30: With a growing number of students in Odisha turning away from traditional general education, the state’s Higher Education Department is doubling down on integrating skill-based learning into the academic framework. Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj acknowledged the trend, citing vacant seats across institutions despite extended admission windows and early commencement of classes.
“Students are opting out of general education because it doesn’t guarantee livelihood,” the minister stated, emphasizing the urgency to align education with employability.
In response, the department is actively implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) by merging general education with vocational and skill-based training. This strategic shift aims to address persistent issues like high dropout rates and low Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER).
To operationalize this vision, the state has signed multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with national and international institutions. Notably, a partnership with the National University of Singapore is already underway, and one training provider is currently skilling 5,000 students.
“Every course must now offer skill acquisition opportunities,” Suraj added, underlining the department’s commitment to making education more relevant and future-ready.
The government hopes this blended model will restore the appeal of general education by making it more practical, outcome-driven, and aligned with job market demands.
