Harekrishna Maharana, a dedicated General Science educator at Mahadeiput UG High School in Odisha’s Koraput district, has been conferred with the prestigious Mukhyamantri Shikhya Puraskar under the Secondary Teacher Award category.
Maharana received the state honour for transforming traditional science lessons into engaging, interactive experiences. By integrating creative Teaching Learning Materials (TLMs) and modern pedagogical methods, he has successfully sparked scientific curiosity and fostered a strong scientific temper among his students.
Beyond classroom innovation, his proactive initiatives to curb school dropout rates and strengthen community participation in school development were key factors behind his selection for the award.
Speaking on the achievement, Maharana emphasised the importance of experiential learning. “Science should not remain confined to textbooks but should be connected to students in their everyday life. My effort has always been to make learning more practical, interesting and inclusive so that every child develops curiosity and a scientific outlook,” he stated. His recognition stands as a testament to how grassroots teaching reforms can uplift rural education.
