The 44th Foundation Day of the Council of Higher Secondary Education (CHSE), Odisha, was celebrated at the CHSE office in Bhubaneswar. Koraput MLA Rupu Bhadra attended the event as the chief guest. CHSE Chairman Mrinal Kanti Das, School and Mass Education Secretary N. Thirumala Naik and other dignitaries were also present.
Addressing the gathering, the guests highlighted the future of students and the major changes expected in the education sector. Meritorious students from colleges across Odisha were also felicitated for their achievements in various fields.
A major announcement came from School and Mass Education Secretary N. Thirumala Naik, who said that Class 10 and Plus Two examinations may eventually come under a single board, allowing students to appear for examinations under one board.
The state is also moving towards a new education system based on the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The focus will shift beyond textbook-based learning towards practical knowledge, real-life experiences and skill development. NCERT is expected to prepare a new curriculum for Class 10 from next year.
The government is also promoting education in the mother tongue. Odia textbooks for Plus Two Science subjects have already been introduced, while efforts are underway to provide more Commerce and other subject textbooks in Odia.
To reduce dependence on costly private tuition and coaching, CHSE is preparing a syllabus for Classes 11 and 12 that will support free digital learning. The initiative is expected to help students prepare for competitive examinations such as IIT and NEET. Around ₹10 crore has been allocated for the initiative.
The government also plans to introduce Plus Two courses through open schooling. Students can receive free education through the system up to the age of 18, after which a fee of around ₹3,500 will apply.
Vocational and employment-oriented education will also receive greater emphasis. The objective is that every student should acquire at least one employable skill by the time they complete Plus Two.
Overall, Odisha’s education system is moving towards a model that combines academic learning with practical experience, digital education and job-oriented skills.