Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to transforming the state’s education system during the centenary celebration of Bhimapur Government Upgraded High School in Ganjam district.
Addressing a large gathering of students, alumni, and locals, the Chief Minister outlined ambitious plans to strengthen primary and higher education, designate the historic school as a Heritage School, and drive economic growth in Ganjam through massive industrial investments. The event, held on Sunday, marked a century of the school’s contribution to education since its founding on March 15, 1924.
Paying tribute to the school’s founder, Late Bhagaban Panda, an exemplary teacher, CM Majhi highlighted the institution’s role in illuminating a border region with knowledge for 100 years. “This school has been a beacon of learning, rooted in the guru-shishya tradition of Indian culture,” he said, contrasting it with the British-era education system designed to produce clerks rather than foster character or knowledge. He noted that remnants of this colonial approach lingered post-independence until transformative reforms were introduced under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
The Chief Minister emphasised the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in Odisha, criticising the previous government for a five-year delay in adopting it. “Our government has enforced NEP 2020, which will bring sweeping changes to education,” he declared. Key initiatives include the introduction of pre-primary classes (Shishu Vatika) and the Nipun Odisha Mission, aimed at boosting foundational literacy and numeracy. Additionally, a record ₹31,000 crore has been allocated for primary education in the current budget, alongside schemes like the Godabarish Mishra Adarsh Primary School Yojana for infrastructure upgrades and the Madhosingh Pocket Money Scheme to reduce dropout rates among tribal students.
CM Majhi took a swipe at the previous government’s 5T school initiative, calling it a “farce” due to inadequate internet connectivity in 84% of schools, falsely branded as digital. “We are ensuring real progress with trained teachers, better facilities, and nutritious meals through the CM Poshan Yojana,” he said, underscoring his government’s focus on quality education.
A major announcement was the inclusion of Bhimapur High School in the Heritage School category, with plans for significant infrastructure upgrades. The Chief Minister directed the Ganjam District Collector to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) and assured that all demands raised by the school would be met with adequate funding. “This institution’s legacy will be preserved and enhanced for future generations,” he promised.
Beyond education, CM Majhi addressed regional development, announcing that the Chief Minister’s Grievance Cell would visit Berhampur to directly hear public concerns. He also revealed plans for over ₹1 lakh crore in industrial investments in Ganjam, which will create substantial job opportunities for the youth. “Our government is fulfilling every promise made to farmers, women, youth, and the poor,” he said, pledging special attention to the region’s growth.
The event saw the Chief Minister honouring four senior alumni and the founder’s family members, as well as awarding five students for their achievements at the district and state levels. Chikiti MLA Manoranjan Dyanasamantara, Digapahandi MLA Siddhant Mahapatra, and Khallikote MLA Purnachandra Sethi, along with the Ganjam District Collector and other dignitaries, attended.
The program featured a welcome address by alumnus Radhakrishna Nayak, an annual report by Headmaster Santosh Nayak, and a vote of thanks by teacher Chittaranjan Samantaray.
As Odisha gears up for its centennial in 2036, CM Majhi’s vision of a prosperous state hinges on education as a cornerstone.
The Bhimapur centenary celebration not only honoured a historic institution but also set the stage for transformative reforms and regional development, signalling a new era for Ganjam and Odisha.
