Bhubaneswar, July 26: The fourth edition of the Argus Education Next Conclave was held in Bhubaneswar on Saturday, bringing together educators, policymakers, researchers, and innovators to chart the future of education in Odisha and beyond.

Organized by Argus News, a leading TV channel of Odisha, the conclave, named as 'Argus Education Next Season-4', focused on the transformative impact of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, skill development, and technology integration in classrooms.

School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond graced the event as chief guest and praised the conclave for uniting stakeholders and raising public awareness about the state’s education system. “If we prioritize education, both the state and the nation can progress,” he said.

Gond emphasized the importance of mother-tongue instruction, skill-based learning, and a shared vision for educational reform. He noted that NEP 2020, implemented in Odisha through the efforts of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and the Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, will bring sweeping changes to the sector.

The Minister further stressed the need for sex education and awareness among students, with the department planning appropriate interventions.

Speaking on the occasion, Skill Development & Technical Education and Industries Minister, Sampad Chandra Swain lauded the media’s role in shaping public discourse and praised Argus News for hosting the conclave. He emphasized the State government’s commitment to establishing Centers of Excellence across Odisha and aligning efforts with the Chief Minister’s vision of a Viksit Odisha.

Swain said the government is focused on strengthening the state’s skill development ecosystem through flagship initiatives and international collaborations including an MoU with ITEES, Singapore, under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi and CM Mohan Majhi.

On his part, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling highlighted the state government's proactive steps in expanding healthcare and education infrastructure.

Dr. Mahaling announced plans to establish more medical and nursing colleges, bolster the AYUSH mission, and support the new government’s rollout of an AI policy. Emphasizing the importance of technology, the Minister stressed integrating IT advancements to improve public service delivery and empower youth with modern skills.

Likewise, Odia Language, Literature & Culture, Higher Education and Sports & Youth Services Minister of Odisha, Suryabanshi Suraj highlighted major initiatives undertaken by the State government to transform higher education system in the state.

The Minister emphasized the need for multidisciplinary learning, digital literacy, and industry-academia collaboration to prepare students for a rapidly changing world. He also announced that 1,300 new Professors have been appointed across universities, and the government has received 354 applications for Vice-Chancellor positions. The newly enforced university amendment rules are aimed at strengthening academic governance, while the introduction of 11.25% reservation for OBCs marks a commitment to inclusive education, he added.

Further, the Minister said that the state has also launched the Fakir Mohan Language Scholarship, supporting students in pursuing studies in Odia language and literature. These reforms reflect the government’s push for equity, excellence, and innovation in the education sector.

The conclave also spotlighted Odisha’s efforts to reduce dropout rates and enhance employability through skill-based education. Argus News CEO Prakash Sahu and other dignitaries praised the initiative as a step toward building a knowledge-driven society.

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