Odisha to Roll Out ‘School Week’ Initiative to Boost Holistic Student Development

Bhubaneswar, Aug. 3 (UDN): In a move to promote holistic learning beyond classroom teaching, the Odisha School Education Programme Authority (OSEPA) has directed all district collectors to implement the ‘School Week’ initiative across government schools in the state.

The programme aims to strengthen co-curricular learning, practical life skills, physical fitness and cultural participation in line with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

As part of the initiative, schools will organise a series of activity-based programmes designed to encourage experiential learning and reduce academic stress. A key feature of the programme is the introduction of ‘Bagless Days’, during which students will attend school without carrying textbooks and instead participate in hands-on activities, skill-based learning sessions and interactive educational exercises.

The initiative also places significant emphasis on students’ physical well-being. Schools have been instructed to conduct fitness-oriented programmes, including activities under the Fit India Movement, with the Fit India Freedom Run forming an important component of the annual calendar.

OSEPA has earmarked 20 days out of the 230 annual working days exclusively for co-curricular activities. These days will be utilised for organising annual functions, sports meets, cultural programmes, exhibitions and other student engagement events, ensuring that extracurricular learning receives dedicated time within the academic schedule.

To ensure effective implementation, district collectors have been tasked with supervising the programme at the district level, while District Education Officers (DEOs) will coordinate execution, monitor progress and manage logistical arrangements across blocks and schools.

Education officials said the initiative is intended to create a more engaging and inclusive learning environment by balancing academics with physical activity, creativity and experiential education. The programme is expected to help students develop confidence, teamwork, communication skills and overall personality, complementing classroom-based learning.