Over 800 Odisha government schools to get robotics labs for Classes 6 to 10

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi launched robotics laboratories in 807 government schools. The initiative expands practical technology education while stressing skills over degrees.

In Short

• Classes 6 to 10 will receive hands-on training in emerging technologies
• Free Nipun App aims to strengthen foundational learning among primary students
• State education awards honoured 375 students, teachers and institutions across Odisha

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday, November 12, launched robotics laboratories in 807 government schools at a cost of Rs 164.33 crore, news agency Press Trust of India (PTI) reported.

The laboratories will provide practical training in robotics, coding, artificial intelligence, machine learning and 3D printing to students of Classes 6 to 10. Majhi also launched an educational app and presented awards to students, teachers and institutions.

The chief minister unveiled the initiatives while inaugurating the three-day children's festival, 'Surabh-2026', which is being attended by more than 2,500 meritorious students from across Odisha.

NIPUN APP LAUNCHED

Majhi launched the 'Nipun App', a free Android-based educational platform aimed at strengthening foundational learning among primary school students.

He also presented the Mukhyamantri Shiksha Puraskar to meritorious teachers, students and educational institutions for their contributions to the state's education sector. A total of 375 individuals and institutions were honoured under the state-level award scheme for 2024 and 2025, PTI reported, citing an official statement.

Nearly Rs 139 crore has been allocated as incentives under the scheme, covering awards from the block to the state level, the statement said.

The chief minister also distributed the 'Mukhyamantri Odia Bhasha Brutti', under which 7,350 meritorious students receive an annual grant of Rs 7,500 each for excellence in the study of Odia. Ten high-achieving students and four Council of Higher Secondary Education toppers were also felicitated at the event.

Addressing the programme, Majhi said the festival celebrated children's dreams, creativity, talent and potential. The chief minister, who began his career as a teacher, advised students to keep pace with changing times and learn to distinguish reliable information from misleading online content.

He said mobile phones should primarily be used as learning tools rather than for entertainment. He also urged students not to get caught up in the race for government jobs or high academic marks.

"It is skill, not a degree, that serves as the genuine guarantee for securing a livelihood," Majhi said, urging students to focus on their studies and prepare for the future.

The event combined the launch of technology-based learning facilities and a foundational education app with awards and financial support for students, teachers and educational institutions across Odisha.

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