Bhubaneswar: The Odisha govt on Wednesday approved a budget of Rs 104 crore for infrastructural development of 90 govt-aided private colleges. “The objective of this assistance is to establish a strong foundation and provide quality education,” higher education minister Suryabanshi Suraj said.
The funds will be used for the construction, repair or renovation of hostels, additional classrooms, common rooms, libraries, laboratories, computer labs, multipurpose halls, administrative buildings and restrooms for students.
According to official sources, the total approved funds will be disbursed to the colleges in phases. In the first phase, 33% of the total amount will be provided. After receiving the first phase of funds, the college authorities will begin work through various state govt executive agencies or central govt initiatives and submit the utilisation certificate to the higher education department.
On Wednesday, in a virtual meeting held in the conference room of the higher education department, the heads and students of the grant-receiving private colleges expressed their gratitude to the govt.
“Our primary goal is to strengthen the foundation of the colleges and provide quality education to students. Various measures are being taken to bring about a revolutionary change in the field of higher education and for the holistic development of students. After the implementation of this project, the foundation of the state’s grant-receiving private colleges will undoubtedly become stronger,” Suraj added.
In the meeting, the minister advised students to pursue higher education and build a bright future. He also discussed how various existing issues in the colleges can be resolved promptly.