Bhubaneswar, 07 September (H.S.): An induction training programme for Post Graduate Teachers (PGTs) appointed to Government Higher Secondary Schools and Government Upgraded Higher Secondary Schools under the Directorate of Higher Secondary Education, Department of School and Mass Education, Odisha, was organised at IMAGE, Siripur, Bhubaneswar.

A total of 120 PGT teachers in History are participating in the first phase of the induction programme. The inaugural session was attended by Prashant Kumar Das, Chief of Field Office, UNICEF; UNICEF Education Specialist Lalita Patnaik; Joint Director Sasmita Mali; and Deputy Directors C.H. Bijayalakshmi and Jitendra Kumar Nayak, among others.

Addressing the participants, UNICEF Chief of Field Office Prashant Kumar Das urged the teachers to actively engage in the training and effectively apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the programme.

He emphasised the important role of teachers in guiding higher secondary students and helping them stay away from criminal and other harmful activities.

UNICEF Education Specialist Lalita Patnaik encouraged the teachers to apply the training outcomes for the holistic development of students. She highlighted the role of teachers in character building and stressed the need to understand students’ interests and needs before beginning classroom instruction.

Joint Director Sasmita Mali delivered the welcome address and outlined the objectives of the programme. Deputy Director C.H. Bijayalakshmi coordinated the programme, while Deputy Director Jitendra Kumar Nayak proposed the vote of thanks.

The induction programme is being conducted in two phases. The first phase is scheduled from September 7 to 11, while the second phase will be held from September 21 to 25, 2026.

The programme covers a range of subjects aimed at strengthening the professional and administrative capabilities of PGT teachers. Key areas include National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, gender-responsive education, ICT-enabled teaching and learning, Odisha Education Rules, SAMS and Shikshajyoti portals, the POSH Act, scholarships, administrative responsibilities, examination and assessment planning, and career guidance.

The training is intended to equip newly appointed PGTs with the knowledge, skills and institutional understanding required to effectively support students and strengthen the quality of higher secondary education in Odisha.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda