Governor Mandates Impact Study for Digital Classrooms in Tribal Schools
Assessment of digital interventions in rural education has taken centre stage as the Odisha Governor calls for a formal evaluation of smart classrooms. During a high-level review meeting held via video conferencing at Raj Bhavan, the focus remained on determining how technology is reshaping learning in schools managed by the ST & SC Development Department.
Stakeholders from seven tribal-dominated districts—Malkangiri, Kandhamal, Koraput, Sundargarh, Mayurbhanj, Rayagada, and Nabarangpur—participated in the session. The discussion centred on the recent installation of smart interactive panels in 46 SSD schools, a project funded by the State Bank of India (SBI) under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
Direct interaction with the beneficiaries provided early insights into the project's success. Students enthusiastically reported that the digital format makes lessons more engaging and easier to grasp. Teachers corroborated this feedback, noting a marked improvement in student participation. They highlighted that complex subjects, particularly Science and Mathematics, have become far more accessible to learners through these interactive tools.
Building on this positive feedback, the Governor stressed that a structured evaluation is essential. He noted that concrete data on the benefits of technology-enabled education would not only validate the current efforts but also inspire other organisations to contribute to similar causes. The Governor further emphasised that technology could be a game-changer for tribal children, specifically highlighting the urgent need for targeted efforts to boost literacy rates among tribal girls.
State officials, including B. Parameswaran, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the ST & SC Development Department, and Rupa Roshan Sahoo, Secretary to the Governor, attended the session alongside SBI Chief General Manager Ratna Teja Dinkar Akella. The Governor commended the coordinated efforts between the banking partner and district administrations, urging continued collaboration to bridge the digital divide in Odisha’s remote regions.
Formal Assessment: The Governor has directed officials to evaluate the tangible impact of smart boards on student learning outcomes.
Positive Feedback: Students and teachers from seven districts reported increased engagement and better understanding of Math and Science.
CSR Initiative: The digital infrastructure in 46 SSD schools was established through State Bank of India's corporate social responsibility funding.
Strategic Focus: Emphasis was placed on using technology to improve overall academic performance and specifically target female literacy in tribal areas.
