Dikhyaa Mohanty 
On Saturday, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi approved the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP-2020) to be implemented in the State’s higher education system beginning with the current academic year (2024–25). An official press release states that the Chief Minister approved the new education policy’s adoption at all public universities and affiliated institutions run by the Odisha government’s Higher Education Department. The goal of this stage is to significantly alter the state’s educational system.
A four-year undergraduate program will be introduced in Odisha in accordance with the new Education Policy 2020, and qualified students will get certificates, diplomas, degrees, and degree honors at the end of each year. The UGC Credit Framework served as the foundation for the preparation of the State-level Credit Framework, which awarded suitable credits and offered internship and skill-development opportunities. Additionally, extracurricular activities, community service, N.C.C., NSS, etc., will be credited.
With many entry and departure points to higher education institutions, students can pick their own courses and finish their degree program in seven years. Measures are being done to improve the quality, autonomy, and inclusivity of Odisha’s higher education system in accordance with the new Education Policy 2020. via a variety of initiatives, it seeks to boost research and innovation. It also seeks to improve skills via hands-on learning and industry internships. The curriculum will be more industry-relevant and focused on employment.
Currently, 84 skill development courses, 56 value-added courses, 112 multidisciplinary courses, 14 vocational courses, 40 graduate core topics with a comprehensive model curriculum, and two skill development courses have been authorized for this. This will make it possible for colleges under the state government’s Higher Education Department to apply the National Education Policy in accordance with the updated curriculum and credit system.
