Suparjya Swain 
FEATURE: Here’s an extraordinary success story that serves as an inspiration to millions. When Lion Uday Chand Mallick completed his post-graduation from Utkal University in the late 90s, securing a white-collar job was not a difficult task for an educated individual. However, Mallick chose a path that would not only define his career but also transform countless lives. He decided to empower the livelihoods of ordinary people by founding the Odisha Institute of Fire Engineering & Safety Management (OIFESM) in the heart of Bhubaneswar in 2002.
At that time, his decision seemed ahead of its time. By now, OIFESM has not only created thousands of job opportunities but has also become a significant name in the field of Fire Safety & Management education. The journey was not always smooth—there were challenges along the way—but Mallick’s unwavering dedication to innovation in education has paved the way for OIFESM’s tremendous success.
Mallick foresaw the growing need for fire safety professionals, particularly as Bhubaneswar was on the cusp of becoming a major hub for corporate businesses across multiple sectors. His foresight has proven accurate, as OIFESM continues to supply top-tier fire safety managers to serve corporate houses, industrial plants, offices, and various other establishments. Today, OIFESM stands as a beacon of excellence in fire safety education in Odisha, known for its outstanding teaching and effective placement programs.
Lion Uday Chand Mallick, a man whose name has become synonymous with dedication and commitment, has consistently prioritized the empowerment of young minds over personal gain or adventure. He has always believed that education is the key to lifting the younger generation, and his two-decade-long journey in this field has been a testament to that vision. For Mallick, true success lies not in wealth or fame, but in the satisfaction of positively impacting others’ lives.
OIFESM is now a nationally recognized brand, attracting students from across India, including states like Jharkhand and West Bengal. The institute is poised to expand its reach even further, with plans to extend its presence beyond Odisha. Furthermore, OIFESM has partnered with Firedog, a leading fire extinguisher brand, to exclusively scale up its operations in Odisha.
Born into humble beginnings, Lion Uday Chand Mallick has not only redefined education through skill development but also carved out a unique and significant space in the field of fire safety management in Odisha. In addition to his professional achievements, Mallick is actively involved in social initiatives, associating with prestigious forums to enlighten and uplift others.
Fondly known as Lion U C Mallick in his community, he advocates to young minds: “Stay true to yourself, be unique in your spirit, and success will eventually find its way to you.” His journey stands as a powerful reminder that with vision, dedication, and a genuine desire to make a difference, one can change the world.
