A state-level advanced technology training camp titled “Emerging Technology Camp” was inaugurated today at Akonik, Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya, Andharua, Bhubaneswar.
The initiative, organised by the Electronics & Information Technology Department and Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC), aims to equip secondary and higher secondary school students with practical knowledge and awareness of cutting-edge technologies.
Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Parliamentary Affairs, Electronics & Information Technology, Dr. Mukesh Mahaling inaugurated the programme as the chief guest. Minister for School & Mass Education, ST & SC Development, Minorities & Backward Classes Welfare, SSEPD, Nityananda Gond, attended as the guest of honour and delivered an inspirational address to the students.
The camp will provide hands-on training in emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Robotics, and Cyber Security. The programme is designed to foster innovation, problem-solving skills, and career readiness among students, transforming them from mere consumers of technology into creators.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Mahaling emphasised that the camp aligns with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat and Viksit Odisha. He announced that in the first phase, the training will be conducted in 100 secondary and higher secondary schools, benefiting 12,000 students. In subsequent phases, the programme will expand to all secondary and higher secondary schools, Adarsha Vidyalayas, colleges, and universities across the state. The initiative will be implemented by Odisha Knowledge Corporation Limited (OKCL) under the aegis of OCAC and the Information Technology Department.
Minister Gond praised the effort, stating that such programmes will help create a skilled, future-ready human resource pool and contribute significantly to building a Digital Odisha. Both ministers highlighted the state government’s commitment to making education future-oriented.
The event featured demonstrations of AI, IoT, Robotics, and Cyber Security technologies by Dr. Manoranjan Puthal, Managing Director, OKCL. Smita Rout, State Project Director, Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya Sangathan, proposed the vote of thanks.
Other dignitaries present included Vishal Kumar Dev, Principal Secretary, Electronics & IT; Smita Rout; and Dr. Pradeep Kumar Rout, Chief Executive Officer, OCAC.
