Paperman Media | Bhubaneswar
A new initiative to provide school students with hands-on vocational learning in agriculture and allied sectors was launched through a collaborative partnership between the Odisha School Education Programme Authority (OSEPA) and Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT).
An inaugural orientation programme was held at the OUAT Conference Hall in Bhubaneswar, marking the commencement of the Dual Mode Vocational Education initiative in 26 PM SHRI Government Secondary Schools across Odisha. Headmasters, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) scientists, SC/ST Education Coordinators and ADEOs (Scheme) from 20 districts participated virtually.
OSEPA State Project Director Sangita Behera and OUAT Dean, Extension Education, Prof. Susanta Kumar Swain attended the programme. Behera highlighted the importance of experiential learning beyond conventional classrooms and said the partnership would create opportunities for skill development, practical learning and career exploration.
Prof. Swain assured OUAT’s full support through its network of KVKs and stressed the need to connect school education with practical knowledge and real-world work environments.
Under an MoU effective from the current academic year, 26 schools have been tagged with OUAT and identified KVKs. Students will gain exposure to OUAT laboratories, farms and food-processing facilities, along with technical expertise in agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry and food processing.
Students of Classes IX and X will receive NSQF-aligned training in six job roles—Mango Grower, Solanaceous Crop Cultivator, Paddy Farmer, Animal Health Worker, Dairy Worker and Citrus Fruit Grower.
Deputy Director, Vocational Education, OSEPA, Tanmaya Kumar Behera outlined the implementation framework, while OUAT Joint Director, Extension Education, Sarbani Das addressed queries and proposed the vote of thanks.
