Bhubaneswar: In a bid to make science education more accessible and inclusive, the Odisha government has decided to introduce Plus II (higher secondary) Science education in the Odia language from the current academic year.

The initiative is expected to benefit a large number of students who have traditionally shied away from pursuing Science due to their fear of English. Under the new system, Science textbooks will be available in Odia, and students will also have the option to write their examinations in the regional language.

The initiative has been jointly undertaken by the School and Mass Education Department and the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department. Officials believe the move will help bridge the long-standing language barrier that has discouraged many meritorious students from Odia-medium backgrounds from opting for Science streams.

According to official sources, nearly 80,000 seats in Plus II Science courses remain vacant in the state every year, largely due to language constraints. With the introduction of Odia-medium textbooks and the option to write exams in Odia, authorities are optimistic that enrolment in Science streams will see a significant increase.

Books arrive at higher secondary schools

The newly printed Odia-medium Science textbooks are currently being distributed to libraries of around 6,500 higher secondary schools and colleges across the state, said Subrat Prusty, Member Secretary of the Odia Studies and Research Institute.

To ensure smooth implementation, special training programmes are being conducted for college principals and Science teachers to familiarise them with the new teaching materials and methodologies.

The move comes at a time when national-level entrance examinations such as NEET and JEE are already offering question papers in Odia, further easing the path for students aspiring to become doctors and engineers.

In addition, the government has developed free online learning resources and a dedicated ‘Jigyansa’ app to support students in their studies.

Education experts have welcomed the initiative, calling it a transformative step towards inclusive and equitable education in Odisha.