Odisha upgrades college science labs with new equipment

The higher education department in Odisha has started the tender process to upgrade laboratory equipment in government and government-aided degree colleges. This move aims to improve the quality of science education in the state. The tender was announced on Friday, and a pre-bid meeting is set for Tuesday. Technical bids for the equipment will be opened on April 28. The department plans to modernize science labs in over 200 colleges. The upgrade will focus on four main subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Botany, and Zoology. Sources say the project will benefit colleges across 27 districts. Cuttack district will have the most colleges involved, with 13. Ganjam follows with 12, while Puri and Mayurbhanj each have 11. Khurda will see 10 colleges participating. Modern lab equipment is essential for maintaining educational standards. It helps prepare students for careers in science and technology. The upgrade could greatly impact thousands of science students in Odisha. A funding gap for lab modernization has existed since the 2022-23 academic year. In January, college principals were asked to submit their specific needs for lab equipment. This lack of funding has especially affected final-year students, who need advanced labs for practical exams and research. College officials believe this new initiative will close the funding gap and improve lab facilities to meet current educational standards.