Odisha Government Unveils Guidelines for the Implementation of Its Signature PSS Initiative
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Bhubaneswar, Dec 20 (NationPress) The Odisha government on Friday outlined the guidelines for the implementation of the Panchasakha Sikhya Setu (PSS), a key initiative designed to transform school education by fostering volunteerism and collaboration through innovative partnerships between citizens and the government.
The recently elected BJP government has introduced the Panchasakha Sikhya Setu (PSS) scheme in the state, rebranding the prior ‘Mo School Abhiyan’ scheme from the previous BJD administration.
This PSS initiative encourages contributions from individual alumni, alumni associations, groups, institutions, social impact organizations, businesses, foundations, CSR initiatives, philanthropists, and more, to improve the school ecosystem in Odisha.
Donors will receive a platform for contributing funds, materials, and services to support the comprehensive development of schools in Odisha.
According to a resolution issued by the Odisha School and Mass Education Department on Friday, "To implement the Panchasakha Shikhya Setu (PSS) scheme, the existing registered body Mo School Abhiyan Parichalana Sangathan (MSAPS) will be renamed as Panchasakha Shikhya Setu Sangathan and will act as the implementing body."
"Necessary amendments to its bye-laws will be made by the Society accordingly. The assets, liabilities, personnel, and funds of the current society will be transferred to the new entity - Panchasakha Shikhya Setu Sangathan," the resolution further explains.
The Society will be led by the Chief Secretary, who will serve as the ex-officio chairperson of the organization.
An Executive Body will manage the daily operations of the program, supported by a governing body and a Board of Advisers, which will include thought leaders, esteemed educationists, social scientists, and notable figures from fields such as art, architecture, design, advertising, film-making, literature, science, and sports. The bye-laws of the Society will detail the composition and responsibilities of the Executive Body and Governing Body.
Each district will establish a District Level Committee, led by the District Collector, as per the resolution.
Funding for the program's implementation will primarily derive from two sources: contributions from donors and a matching amount from the state government, which can be up to Rs.50.00 lakh as a matching grant for each donor contribution.
Funds obtained from donors will be allocated for the enhancement of school infrastructure, including toilets, labs, hostels, innovative training programs, and annual health check-ups for students, among other necessities.
“To implement the program, the Society will appoint officers, staff, and experts with specialized knowledge in their respective fields as needed, with prior government approval,” the resolution added.
