Koraput, Oct 30: The Central University of Odisha (CUO), Koraput on Friday organised an outreach programme on the Odisha Seva First Innovation Challenge (OSFIC) 2026 to sensitise students and research scholars about innovation, entrepreneurship and opportunities for transforming ideas into practical ventures.

The programme was organised by the University's Innovation and Entrepreneurship Hub (Incubation Centre) in collaboration with the District Industries Centre (DIC), Koraput–Jeypore in the University campus.

Addressing the gathering, Registrar in-charge Dr. Sanjay Kumar Pradhan emphasised the importance of innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship in higher education.

Jayanta Kumar Nayak, Assistant Industries Officer, DIC Koraput–Jeypore, highlighted the role of institutional support in nurturing entrepreneurial initiatives.

Dr. Minati Sahoo, DEAN, Students Welfare, encouraged students and research scholars to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and explore opportunities for converting innovative ideas into viable ventures.

A technical session on OSFIC 2026 was conducted by Anurag S. Nayak, Assistant Industries Officer, DIC, who explained the initiative and its opportunities. Purna Chandra Singh, Assistant Industries Officer, demonstrated the online registration process to familiarise participants with the application procedure.

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Dr. Sitanath Raiguru, Nodal Officer, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Hub, delivered the welcome address. An interactive session enabled participants to clarify their queries. Anita Mishra, Industries Promotion Officer, DIC Koraput–Jeypore, proposed the vote of thanks.