Bhubaneswar: Having prioritised higher and technical education in the state budget for 2026-27, the Odisha government has initiated steps for translating into action the announcement for setting up four new universities and two engineering colleges.
Skill Development and Technical Education Minister Sampad Chandra Swain has swung into action following the budget declaration of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who holds the Finance portfolio.
Officials said the Minister has directed senior officials to take immediate steps for speedy implementation of the announcement made in the budget, which marks a milestone in the state’s education history.
As the government announced new en
gineering colleges in Paradip and Balangir, Swain urged the administration in both these districts to coordinate with officials and fast track administrative and legal procedures so that institutions become operational within the scheduled timeframe. He said the initiative would transform education in these districts and create opportunities for youth.
Jagatsinghpur will also get a new university. The minister wrote to the Higher Education Department, asking for urgent measures to establish the greenfield university. He also requested the district collector to coordinate with departments and accelerate groundwork.
Swain noted that Jagatsinghpur had long demanded a university and an engineering college. He expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister on behalf of residents, calling the announcement a gift that would reshape the district’s future.
The minister emphasised that technical education will play a key role in realising the vision of a prosperous Odisha. He said the new institutions will open pathways for youth development and strengthen the state’s academic infrastructure.