Bhubaneswar, Sept. 7 (UDN): An induction training programme for Post Graduate Teachers (PGTs) appointed to Government Higher Secondary Schools and Government Upgraded Higher Secondary Schools in Odisha began at IMAGE, Siripur, Bhubaneswar, on Monday.
The programme, organised under the Directorate of Higher Secondary Education, Department of School and Mass Education, is aimed at equipping teachers with the knowledge, skills and administrative understanding required to effectively guide higher secondary students.
As many as 120 PGTs in History are participating in the first phase of the induction programme.
Focus on Student Development
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 participating teachers, Prashant Kumar Das urged them to actively engage in the training sessions and make effective use of the knowledge and skills gained during the programme.
He stressed the important role teachers play in guiding higher secondary students and helping them make responsible choices and stay away from criminal activities.
UNICEF Education Specialist Lalita Patnaik encouraged the teachers to put their training into practice for the overall development of students. She also highlighted the importance of character building and urged teachers to understand students’ interests and needs before beginning classroom instruction.
Training Covers NEP, ICT and Administrative Responsibilities
The induction programme will cover a wide range of topics relevant to classroom teaching and school administration.
Key areas include National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, gender-responsive education, ICT-based teaching and learning, Odisha Education Rules, SAMS and Shikshajyoti portals, the POSH Act, scholarships, administrative responsibilities, examination and assessment planning, and career guidance.
The sessions are designed to familiarise teachers with both academic practices and the administrative responsibilities associated with their new roles.
Programme to Be Held in Two Phases
Joint Director Sasmita Mali delivered the welcome address and outlined the objectives of the induction programme.
Deputy Director C.H. Bijayalakshmi coordinated the inaugural session, 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 is expected to help newly appointed PGTs strengthen their teaching practices and better understand their responsibilities towards students and the school system.