Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi attended the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of Kamalakanta Government High School in Kaliaboda, Cuttack, hailing it as a “beacon of knowledge” illuminating the city for 60 years.
The event, marking the school’s 60th anniversary, was a grand reunion of current and former students, celebrating the institution’s legacy of academic excellence and societal contributions.
During the event, CM Majhi announced a ₹1 crore grant from the Chief Minister’s Fund for constructing a Diamond Jubilee Hall at the school. He also revealed plans to include Kamalakanta High School in the PM Shri Scheme, a centrally sponsored initiative to develop model schools. Further commitments include building a mini stadium, a two-story building, and fulfilling all infrastructural needs of the school in the near future.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasised the school’s role in shaping successful alumni who have elevated its prestige. “The Diamond Jubilee is not just for current students but a grand reunion for alumni who have reached great heights, contributing to the school’s legacy,” he said. He underscored the importance of equipping today’s students, the architects of a developed India, with modern facilities, calling it a fundamental and moral duty of the government.
CM Majhi highlighted ongoing educational reforms in Odisha, citing the Godabarish Mishra Model Primary School as an example of world-class education infrastructure. He announced plans to establish such schools in every panchayat and align 762 schools under the PM-SHRI scheme to enhance foundational education through the ‘Nipun Odisha’ mission. Additionally, the government is working on preserving and renovating heritage schools over 100 years old and conducting door-to-door surveys under the ‘Asa School Jiba’ campaign to ensure universal education access.
The Chief Minister also outlined significant budgetary allocations, with over ₹31,000 crore dedicated to primary education in the current fiscal year. To strengthen the education system, 44,433 teacher posts will be filled over the next three years, with 15,000 appointments annually. Existing contractual teachers will be regularised, ensuring stability in the teaching workforce.
The event saw the presence of notable dignitaries, including Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond, Cuttack MP Dr. Bhartuhari Mahtab, and Cuttack-Sadar MLA Prakash Chandra Sethi. The Chief Minister honoured retired teachers and unveiled the school’s Diamond Jubilee souvenir. Cuttack-Choudwar MLA Souvic Biswal and Headmistress Subhadarshini Nanda were also present.
Dr. Mahtab delivered the welcome address, while social worker Nayan Kishore Mohanty proposed the vote of thanks, marking a memorable celebration of the school’s illustrious journey.
