Finance
In a significant development for Odisha’s school education, the Government of India has authorized the upgradation of 71 government secondary schools to full-fledged Higher Secondary Schools (Classes XI and XII) under the Samagra Shiksha initiative for the academic year 2026-27.
The Union Ministry of Education’s Project Approval Board (PAB) has additionally approved about Rs 140.74 crore in non-recurring financial support for these institutions’ infrastructural development.
According to an official notification published by the Odisha School Education Programme Authority (OSEPA), clearance was granted based on recommendations from the respective district Collectors. The chosen schools comprise 60 in the Arts stream and 11 in the Science stream. The cash will be used to build crucial facilities including classrooms, science labs, and other critical infrastructure.
The State Project Director has requested that the School and Mass Education Department issue formal government directives as soon as possible so that the improved schools can begin operations in the upcoming academic session.
Ganjam district has obtained the most permissions, with 12 schools, followed by Malkangiri (6), Balasore (5), Balangir (5), and Nabarangpur. The list includes several other districts, including Angul, Kandhamal, Keonjhar, Khordha, Kalahandi, and Sundargarh.
This effort is expected to significantly expand access to higher secondary education, particularly in rural and underserved areas, and minimize the need for students to travel vast distances after completing Class X.
