Education Key to Building the Future of Individuals and Nation: Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati

Emphasizing the crucial role of education in shaping the future of individuals, society, and the nation, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati stated that teachers play a fundamental role in building responsible citizens and strengthening the country’s future.

The Governor made these remarks while inaugurating the National Conference–2026 on capacity building for stakeholders to implement the National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST) and National Mission for Mentoring (NMM) at Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar on Friday.

Participation from Multiple States

The conference witnessed participation from educationists, teachers, policymakers, and administrators from several states including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Sikkim, Tripura, and West Bengal.

Representatives from State Councils of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), District Institutes of Education and Training (DIET), Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, CBSE schools, and state board institutions also attended the conference, reflecting the diversity and collaborative spirit of India’s education ecosystem.

Teachers at the Centre of Educational Transformation

Addressing the gathering, the Governor said teachers shape the mindset, curiosity, and sense of responsibility among students. Referring to India’s ancient guru–shishya tradition, he highlighted the timeless importance of educators in building knowledge, values, and character.

He added that in today’s rapidly evolving world, the education system must adapt to new realities driven by technology, artificial intelligence, digital connectivity, and global collaboration. Students should be prepared not only for examinations but also for innovation, entrepreneurship, and global challenges.

NEP 2020 Driving Education Reforms

Governor Kambhampati noted that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the National Education Policy 2020 provides a comprehensive roadmap to transform India’s education system to meet 21st-century needs.

He also praised Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan for translating this vision into concrete initiatives aimed at strengthening teacher empowerment and educational reforms.

Strengthening Teachers Through NPST and NMM

Highlighting key initiatives under NEP 2020, the Governor said the National Professional Standards for Teachers provide educators with a clear professional identity, defining expectations, competencies, and career development pathways.

Similarly, the National Mission for Mentoring aims to create a large pool of experienced professionals who can mentor school teachers across the country, enabling continuous professional development and cross-learning among educators.

These initiatives are expected to improve the quality of teaching and learning in classrooms while empowering teachers as mentors, facilitators, and innovators in education.

Messages from Education Leaders

During the conference, a message from Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and a video message from Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary were presented.

The event also featured addresses by IIT Bhubaneswar Director Shripad Karmalkar, National Council for Teacher Education Chairperson Pankaj Arora, and other academic leaders.

The conference aims to strengthen collaboration among stakeholders and accelerate the implementation of teacher development initiatives to enhance the quality of education across India.