Odisha's Groundbreaking Foreign Education Initiative
In a significant move to empower marginalized communities, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj unveiled the Videsh Siksha Bruti scheme on Wednesday, marking a revolutionary step in educational opportunities for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe students in Odisha.
The ambitious foreign education scholarship program promises to provide Rs 25 lakh per annum to deserving SC and ST students aspiring to pursue higher education at prestigious international institutions.
Scholarship Details and Implementation
The transformative scheme is scheduled for implementation in the 2025-26 academic session, with the state government committing to support 50 students annually. Minister Suraj emphasized that this initiative will break financial barriers that have historically limited opportunities for underprivileged students.
"Financial constraints will no longer hinder their aspirations," declared Suraj during the launch ceremony, highlighting the scheme's potential to transform lives and communities.
The scholarship targets students seeking admission to postgraduate and doctoral programs in the top 200 universities globally, as ranked by the QS World University Rankings. Eligibility criteria include an annual family income not exceeding Rs 12 lakh, ensuring support reaches those who need it most.
Distribution Across Academic Disciplines
The selection process will occur twice yearly, with application windows open from July to August and December to January. The 50 scholarships will be distributed across various academic fields:
- 10 scholarships for engineering and technology programs (4 PG, 6 PhD)
- 10 scholarships for medical, agriculture, architecture and technical courses (4 PG, 6 PhD)
- 30 scholarships for courses under the higher education department (10 PG, 20 PhD)
Strengthening Educational Standards
Concurrently, the Odisha State Higher Education Council received copyright protection under the Copyright Act, 1957, empowering it to conduct comprehensive academic performance audits of higher educational institutions throughout the state.
This development will enable the council to systematically evaluate and enhance academic standards across Odisha's higher education landscape. Minister Suraj emphasized that the academic performance audit will ensure quality education remains a priority in the state's educational framework.
In another positive development, the minister distributed appointment letters to 34 candidates for Group C and Group D positions across aided colleges, further strengthening the state's educational infrastructure through the department's rehabilitation assistance program.
The Videsh Siksha Bruti scheme represents Odisha's commitment to creating global educational opportunities while simultaneously strengthening local academic standards, positioning the state as a leader in inclusive educational development.
