Prisita Das 
In a major leap towards future-proofing the state’s education system, the Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC), under the Department of Electronics & IT, has launched a state-level training program on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Robotics, and Cybersecurity for students of Government Secondary and Higher Secondary schools.
The inauguration ceremony took place at the Iconic Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya in Bhubaneswar.
The event was graced by Chief Guest Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Parliamentary Affairs, and Electronics & IT. In his inaugural address, Dr. Mahaling highlighted the utility of cutting-edge technologies and advised students to integrate Artificial Intelligence into their studies to shape a better future.
Guest of Honour Shri Nityananda Gond, Minister of School & Mass Education, ST & SC Development, and Social Security & Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, emphasized the growing importance and applicability of AI in the modern world.
Speaking at the event, Shri Vishal Kumar Dev, Principal Secretary, Electronics & IT Department, urged students to utilize these modern technical skills to build a new life and career.
Dr. Pradeep Kumar Rout, CEO of OCAC, inspired the students with a call to action, advising them to use these new technical skills to become “job creators” rather than just “job seekers.”
The training program will be implemented by the Odisha Knowledge Corporation Ltd (OKCL) with the patronage of OCAC and the E&IT Department.
Phase 1: The initiative will kick off in 100 Secondary and Higher Secondary schools, benefiting approximately 12,000 students.
Future Expansion: In subsequent phases, the training will cover all Secondary and Higher Secondary schools, Adarsha Vidyalayas, colleges, and universities across the state.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Smt. Smita Rout. Dr. Tanuj Kumar Nayak, Principal of the Iconic OAV, was also present. Following the speeches, Dr. Manoranjan Puthal, Managing Director of OKCL, demonstrated the state-of-the-art technologies to the guests.
