Bhubaneswar, July 23 (UDN): Odisha has strengthened its tribal education infrastructure with 47 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) currently operational, while construction work is underway for 52 additional schools, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs informed the Rajya Sabha.
In a written reply, Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durgadas Uikey said that the government has sanctioned a total of 114 EMRSs across Odisha to provide quality residential education facilities for tribal students and improve access to learning opportunities in remote areas.
Out of the sanctioned schools, construction of 62 EMRS buildings has been completed, with 47 already functioning. The remaining completed schools are expected to become operational shortly, while the other sanctioned institutions are progressing through various stages of construction.
Mayurbhanj district has the highest number of sanctioned EMRSs with 23 schools, followed by Sundargarh, Koraput, Kandhamal, and Keonjhar. Several districts have already completed and operationalised their sanctioned schools, while construction continues in other regions.
The Ministry also highlighted steps being taken to address staffing requirements in EMRSs. Across the country, 9,111 teaching and non-teaching personnel have been recruited, while recruitment processes for additional posts are underway to strengthen academic and administrative support.
To ensure uninterrupted education, temporary arrangements through deputation and contractual appointments are being encouraged until regular recruitment is completed. The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) is also monitoring academic performance and implementing measures such as remedial classes, mentoring, and bridge courses to improve learning outcomes.
The expansion of Eklavya Model Residential Schools reflects the government’s commitment to providing accessible, quality education and creating better academic opportunities for tribal students across Odisha.
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