Bhubaneswar, 19 August (H.S.) The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, in collaboration with the Odisha Model Tribal Education Society (OMTES) of the ST & SC Development Department, has inaugurated a four-day Induction-cum-Capacity Building Workshop for hostel wardens of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) across Odisha.

The workshop, being conducted from August 19 to 22 at the Regional Institute of Education (RIE), Bhubaneswar, has drawn participation from 60 hostel wardens—both male and female—serving in various EMRS institutions throughout the state.

Prof. Manasi Goswami, Principal In-charge, RIE Bhubaneswar, inaugurated the workshop and delivered the keynote address. In her remarks, she described hostel wardens as the “soul of the residential school system,” emphasizing their critical role in maintaining discipline, ensuring holistic care, and supporting the well-being of students.

Ms. Pranati Patro, Joint Director, SC & ST Department and in charge of OMTES, engaged with the participants in an interactive session, highlighting the importance of addressing the emotional and psychological needs of students. She underlined the necessity of creating a nurturing and supportive hostel environment that fosters both academic success and personal development.

The workshop, coordinated by Shri B. K. Mahanti, Consultant, is part of a broader initiative to enhance the professional skills and competencies of hostel wardens. It aims to empower them with best practices in hostel management, student engagement, and psychosocial support—ensuring better outcomes for tribal students in residential education settings.

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda