Bhubaneswar, Aug 12: The Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) is set to expand its academic footprint with four new colleges across Odisha, aimed at strengthening agricultural education and supporting the farming and allied sectors.

The four proposed institutions include two agriculture colleges, one veterinary and animal husbandry college, and one fisheries college. All four colleges are expected to begin academic activities from the 2026-27 session.

A 60-seat Agriculture College will be established in Mayurbhanj, with preparations already underway for admissions and recruitment of teaching and non-teaching staff.

Meanwhile, a Veterinary and Animal Husbandry College will come up at Kalamati village near Chiplima in Sambalpur district. Until construction of the permanent campus is completed, the college is expected to function temporarily from the existing gaushala at Chiplima. Approval from the Veterinary Council of India is required before classes begin.

The university will also establish a Fisheries College in Sonepur and another Agriculture College in Balangir.

OUAT authorities said the state government has already approved the establishment of the four colleges and provided advance funds. Applications have also been submitted to the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) for approval of the two agriculture colleges and the fisheries college.

The university's Board of Management had earlier taken a decision on the proposal, followed by approval from the Academic Council and the final decision on August 5.

According to OUAT Registrar Pratibha Dora, the university has initiated the required processes following the approvals. The expansion is expected to create new opportunities for students while strengthening agricultural, veterinary and fisheries education across Odisha.