Odisha Signs MoU for PM-USHA Education Scheme

The Odisha government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Union Ministry of Education to implement the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) program, a key initiative under the National Education Policy 2020 aimed at enhancing the state's higher education infrastructure. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized the program's role in improving quality, access, and employability for students, with an expected allocation of Rs 500 crore from the central government. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan called this a landmark day for Odisha's education sector, highlighting the significance of greater efficiency and accountability in higher education. The initiative aims to upskill one crore students and transform state universities into world-class institutions, fostering skill development and research capabilities. Additionally, the program intends to promote the preservation of tribal languages through language laboratories. This step is seen as a crucial move toward achieving the vision set forth by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.