Bhubaneswar: Odisha 5T Secretary VK Pandian visited several schools here on Sunday to inspect the infrastructure besides seeking suggestion from teachers for improvement in the educational ecosystem.
Early morning Pandian visited state-run schools at Unit-6, Unit-1, Capital High School, Unit-9 Girls’ High School and IRC Village High School here, triggering speculation that the Naveen Patnaik government is planning something to ‘transform’ certain schools.
While interacting with the teachers and the school managing committee members, Pandian enquired about smart classrooms, science laboratory, sports facilities, reading room and Class X exam results.
The 5T secretary also sought suggestions on Mo School Abhijan, a government program me to connect with alumni, and improving the school curricula to make learning more student-friendly, inspiring and scientific.
Pandian had last year visited schools in Boudh and Bargarh districts, signalling the government’s increasing focus to improve education in state-run schools. He had also visited schools in Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s constituency, Hinjili in Ganjam, while a team from the CM’s office undertook a trip to schools in Kendrapara.
Official sources said the government plans to take up certain schools under its 5T initiative and take those to the ‘higher level’. “5T secretary’s visits clearly indicate that something is on the anvil,” a senior government functionary quipped.
Headmistress of Capital High School Sonamika Ray appreciated the 5T secretary’s visit to her school and said, “It is our privilege that he came, saw our infrastructure and enquired different things. We sincerely hope our school would benefit if the government rolls out any new scheme.”