Educational Management in Odisha

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Structure and Functions with Reference to School & Mass Education and Higher Education

Introduction

Educational management in Odisha plays a crucial role in planning, organizing, administering and evaluating the educational system of the state. The Government of Odisha has developed a well-defined administrative structure to ensure access, equity, quality and relevance in education at different levels. Educational management in Odisha mainly operates through two major wings: School and Mass Education and Higher Education. Each wing has its own administrative structure and functions, working under the overall guidance of the state government.

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Educational Management in Odisha: An Overview

Educational management in Odisha is guided by constitutional provisions, national education policies and state-specific educational needs. The system aims to provide free and compulsory education at the elementary level, improve secondary education and promote quality higher education.

The Department of School and Mass Education and the Department of Higher Education are the two main authorities responsible for educational administration in the state.

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Educational Management of School and Mass Education in Odisha

Structure of School and Mass Education

The School and Mass Education Department (SME), Odisha is responsible for managing education from pre-primary to secondary level, as well as adult and non-formal education.

Administrative Structure:

1. Minister of School and Mass Education

   • Political head of the department
   • Responsible for policy decisions

2. Commissioner-cum-Secretary

   • Administrative head
   • Implements policies and government decisions

3. Director of Elementary Education (DEE)

   • Manages primary and upper primary education

4. Director of Secondary Education (DSE)

   • Manages high schools and secondary education

5. District Education Officer (DEO)

   • District-level administration of schools

6. Block Education Officer (BEO)

   • Supervises schools at the block level

7. Headmasters / Principals

   • Institutional-level management

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Functions of School and Mass Education Department

1. Policy Implementation
   Implements national and state education policies such as RTE Act, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan and NEP guidelines.

2. Curriculum and Textbooks
   Curriculum development through SCERT and preparation of textbooks through Odisha State Bureau of Textbook Preparation.

3. Teacher Management
   Recruitment, training, transfer and promotion of teachers through OPSC, OSSC and training institutions.

4. School Administration
   Establishment, recognition and supervision of schools.

5. Student Welfare Schemes
   Implementation of schemes like Mid-Day Meal, free uniforms, scholarships and bicycles.

6. Monitoring and Supervision
   Regular inspection and academic supervision to ensure quality education.

7. Mass and Adult Education
   Promotion of adult literacy and continuing education programmes.

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Educational Management of Higher Education in Odisha

Structure of Higher Education in Odisha

The Department of Higher Education, Odisha manages colleges, universities and professional institutions in the state.

Administrative Structure:

1. Minister of Higher Education

   • Political head of higher education

2. Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Higher Education

   • Administrative head
   • Responsible for policy implementation

3. Director of Higher Education (DHE)

   • Supervises colleges and degree education

4. Universities (State, Central & Private)

   • Managed by Vice-Chancellors

5. Autonomous Colleges

   • Academic autonomy under UGC norms

6. Affiliating Bodies

   • Universities affiliating degree colleges

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Functions of Higher Education Department

1. Policy Formulation and Implementation
   Implements national policies, UGC guidelines and state higher education reforms.

2. Administration of Colleges and Universities
   Establishment, affiliation, funding and regulation of higher education institutions.

3. Curriculum Development
   Ensures implementation of CBCS and outcome-based education.

4. Teacher Recruitment and Development
   Recruitment through OPSC and professional development through orientation and refresher programmes.

5. Quality Assurance
   Promotes NAAC accreditation and academic audits.

6. Student Support Services
   Scholarships, e-admission system, hostels and career guidance.

7. Research and Innovation
   Encourages research activities and collaborations.

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Role of Regulatory and Support Institutions

Several bodies support educational management in Odisha:

• SCERT – Teacher training and curriculum development
• DIETs – In-service and pre-service teacher education
• BSE Odisha & CHSE – Conduct examinations
• UGC & NAAC – Maintain quality standards in higher education

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Challenges in Educational Management in Odisha

1. Regional disparities in educational access
2. Teacher shortages in rural areas
3. Infrastructure limitations
4. Quality improvement in higher education
5. Digital divide

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Recent Initiatives and Reforms

• Implementation of Samagra Shiksha
• Digital initiatives like Mo School Abhiyan
• CBCS and NEP-based reforms in higher education
• Focus on teacher training and quality assurance

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Conclusion

Educational management in Odisha is a comprehensive and structured system aimed at ensuring inclusive, equitable and quality education. The School and Mass Education Department focuses on universal school education and literacy, while the Higher Education Department promotes academic excellence, research and innovation. Effective coordination between various administrative levels and continuous reforms are essential for strengthening the educational system in Odisha. A well-managed educational system contributes significantly to the social, economic and cultural development of the state.