Sambalpur, Sep 14: The nationwide education initiative “Aasa School Jiba” (Let’s Go to School) reached a significant milestone in Sambalpur today, as Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan joined a padayatra (awareness march) aimed at reintegrating out-of-school children into the mainstream education system.

The campaign, launched across Odisha, focuses on identifying and enrolling children who have either dropped out or never attended school.

The goal is to ensure that every child, regardless of background, has access to quality education and is part of the formal learning process.

Joining the Union Minister in the Sambalpur leg of the padayatra were Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik, along with senior district officials including the District Collector, Superintendent of Police (SP), and Inspector General (IG).

Several other dignitaries and community leaders also participated, demonstrating strong administrative and public support for the initiative.

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The march was marked by enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, and local residents, all pledging to support the cause of universal education. The campaign also includes community meetings, school visits, and parent-teacher interactions to identify barriers to education and offer solutions.