In a significant step toward promoting education in regional languages, the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has launched its Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education (DECE) in Odia.
The translated course materials and textbooks were formally released today by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida and Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, marking a key milestone under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on June 9 between IGNOU and the Higher Education Department.
The MoU enables IGNOU to offer a range of programs in Odia, including undergraduate and postgraduate courses, diplomas, certificates, and specialised programs like BBA, MBA, and Travel and Tourism Management. The DECE, previously available in English, Hindi, and Tamil, is a one-year diploma for students who have completed their +2 education. It focuses on early childhood education, child health, and nutrition, combining theoretical learning with practical training through textbooks, audio cassettes, and video tutorials.
Deputy CM Pravati Parida hailed the initiative as a game-changer for Anganwadi workers, pre-school educators, and trainers, who can now pursue the course in their mother tongue. “This step makes education more accessible and effective, empowering those involved in child education and nutrition, including voluntary organisations and private playschools,” she said.
Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj emphasised the course’s alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which prioritises mother-tongue education to strengthen early learning. “Early education is the foundation of our education system. The DECE will equip educators with practical skills to foster creativity and achieve the goal of ‘Education for All,’” he stated.
The launch event saw virtual participation from Anganwadi workers enrolled in the DECE, who expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Parida, Suraj, and IGNOU officials. Dignitaries present included Aravind Agrawal, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Higher Education Department, Monisha Banerjee, Director of Women & Child Development, and Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice-Chancellor of IGNOU.
This initiative is set to enhance skill development for educators and caregivers in Odisha, fostering a stronger foundation for early childhood education in the state.
