How is Odisha CM Enhancing Learning with ‘Jadu Pedi’ Kits?
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Synopsis
Odisha is elevating early childhood education with the innovative ‘Jadu Pedi’ learning kits, aimed at creating a joyful learning environment. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi's review highlights the importance of play in education, ensuring that foundational skills are developed through engaging activities.
Key Takeaways
- Innovative learning kits promote joyful education.
- Developed by NCERT under NEP 2020.
- Targeting children aged 3 to 8 years.
- Investment of Rs 90 crore for educational resources.
- Engaging materials reflect local culture and languages.
Bhubaneswar, April 29 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enriching early childhood education through play and joyful learning, Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reviewed the pioneering ‘Jadu Pedi’ (Magic Box) learning kits on Tuesday. These kits are specifically crafted for young learners in Shishu Vatika, Class 1, and Class 2.
Developed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), the kits align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, marking a significant advancement in educational resources.
During a review session at Lok Seva Bhawan, the Chief Minister expressed his approval after inspecting the contents of the kits.
He remarked, “These educational toys will enable young minds to learn through play, utilizing materials that resonate with their everyday experiences. This will enhance their learning journey, making it more engaging and enjoyable.”
The initiative is being executed by the School and Mass Education Department. Commissioner-cum-Secretary Shalini Pandit provided insights on the educational significance and components of the kits.
Each kit is priced around Rs 20,000, with plans to distribute them to 45,000 schools throughout Odisha, bringing the project’s total cost to Rs 90 crore. This program aims to cultivate foundational skills by igniting curiosity and transforming the learning experience into a joyful and interactive endeavor.
The play-based learning initiative, conceived by NCERT, targets children aged 3 to 8 years and emphasizes the development of cognitive skills, emotional health, and foundational proficiency in language and mathematics.
In February 2023, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan unveiled the kits as a vital tool for foundational-stage education, endorsing the mantra 'Learning through Play.'
Jadu Pedi serves as a versatile and stimulating resource that promotes experiential learning, aiding in the holistic development of children—cognitively, socially, emotionally, and physically.
According to the National Curriculum Framework for the Foundational Stage (NCF-FS) 2022, children learn optimally through play, engaging in activities like talking, listening, utilizing toys, painting, drawing, singing, dancing, and participating in physical activities such as running and jumping.
The kits incorporate playbooks, toys, puzzles, posters, flashcards, storybooks, and worksheets, all reflecting local cultures, languages, and social contexts. Available in 13 Indian languages, the kits cater to the diverse learning requirements of children.
Point of View
I find the rollout of the ‘Jadu Pedi’ learning kits in Odisha to be a visionary step towards enhancing early childhood education. This initiative not only aligns with the national educational framework but also underscores the significance of play in learning, which is crucial for cognitive and emotional development. By investing in these resources, Odisha is setting a precedent for other states to follow, demonstrating a commitment to nurturing young minds through innovative educational practices.
NationPress
18/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 'Jadu Pedi' learning kits?
The 'Jadu Pedi' learning kits are innovative educational resources designed for young learners in Shishu Vatika, Class 1, and Class 2, promoting joyful learning through play.
Who developed the 'Jadu Pedi' kits?
The kits were developed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
How much does each kit cost?
Each 'Jadu Pedi' kit costs around Rs 20,000.
How many schools will receive these kits?
The State Government plans to distribute the kits to approximately 45,000 schools across Odisha.
What age group are the kits designed for?
The kits are aimed at children aged 3 to 8 years, focusing on foundational skill development.
