Department of Higher Education of Orissa

Overview

The Department of Higher Education (DHE), Government of Odisha, is the principal state agency responsible for overseeing and regulating higher education institutions within the state. It administers a diverse range of public and private universities, degree colleges, polytechnics and research institutions, aiming to enhance the quality and accessibility of higher education for students across Odisha. According to uniRank, Odisha is home to several universities and colleges that offer a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

History and Legal Framework

The Department of Higher Education was established to centralize the administration and development of higher education in Odisha. It operates under the legal framework set by the Government of Odisha and aligns with national educational policies and regulations, including those set by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). The Odisha Universities (Amendment) Act, 2024, has been a significant legislative development, aiming to streamline academic appointments and enhance the autonomy of state universities. This Act enables the establishment of expert committees for faculty recruitment and modifies the appointment process for vice-chancellors, aligning with UGC norms and removing bureaucratic constraints from academic appointments .

Mission, Vision and Objectives

Vision: To proactively work towards making Odisha a hub of global excellence in higher education, with a focus on equity, access, innovative teaching-learning, research, consultancy and extension activities, thereby empowering the youth with employable knowledge and fostering a creative, enlightened and productive society.

Mission: To strengthen the existing educational system and simultaneously take innovative steps to open up new avenues for students by imparting need-based, market-oriented education. The department aims to establish a value-based society and mold the youth to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Objectives:

• Enhance the quality of higher education institutions across the state.
• Promote research and innovation within academic institutions.
• Ensure equitable access to higher education for all sections of society.
• Develop infrastructure and facilities to support academic growth.
• Foster collaborations with national and international educational bodies.

Governance, Structure and Independence

The Department of Higher Education is administered at the Secretariat level by the Principal Secretary/Secretary and Joint Secretary. The organizational structure includes various divisions responsible for policy implementation, academic planning and coordination with higher education institutions. The Directorate of Higher Education plays a significant role in ensuring the development and governance of higher education in the state, maintaining academic standards and providing recommendations for improvement. While the department operates under the framework set by the Government of Odisha, it maintains a degree of autonomy to address the specific needs of higher education in the region.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation

Institutions under the Department of Higher Education are subject to accreditation by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), an autonomous body established by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The Odisha State Higher Education Council (OSHEC) plays a pivotal role in setting academic quality norms, specifying requirements for the award of degrees and diplomas and coordinating accreditation processes. OSHEC also works closely with state universities to implement quality initiatives and reforms, ensuring that institutions adhere to academic standards and continuously improve their offerings .

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

The Department of Higher Education actively engages in international collaborations to enhance the quality and global competitiveness of higher education in Odisha. Initiatives include partnerships with national institutions like the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) to offer academic programs in regional languages, such as Odia, thereby promoting inclusivity and preserving cultural heritage. Additionally, the department has established an International Student Facilitation Cell to support and assist international students in both public and private universities, facilitating a smooth academic and cultural experience and addressing grievances .

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

The Department of Higher Education continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of higher education in Odisha. Initiatives under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, such as the introduction of multidisciplinary programs and the establishment of new universities and colleges, aim to increase the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in higher education and enhance the quality of education. The department is also focusing on enhancing vocational education, reducing dropout rates and improving employability among graduates. Strategic efforts are being made to address challenges such as faculty shortages, infrastructure deficits and the need for curriculum reforms to align with industry requirements.

Summary

The Department of Higher Education of Odisha is instrumental in overseeing and enhancing the higher education sector in the state. Through its vision, mission and objectives, the department strives to provide quality education, promote research and ensure equitable access for all. While it operates within the legal and administrative framework of the Government of Odisha, the department maintains a level of independence to address the unique needs of higher education in the region. With a focus on accreditation, international cooperation and future-oriented initiatives, the department is committed to fostering an environment of academic excellence and innovation.

FAQs

• What is the Department of Higher Education of Odisha?
  The Department of Higher Education of Odisha is a government agency responsible for overseeing and regulating higher education institutions in the state of Odisha, India.
• When was the Department of Higher Education established?
  The Department of Higher Education was established to centralize the administration and development of higher education in Odisha, with its exact founding date not specified in the available sources.
• What is the mission of the Department of Higher Education?
  The mission is to strengthen the existing educational system and simultaneously take innovative steps to open up new avenues for students by imparting need-based, market-oriented education.
• Which institutions are under the Department of Higher Education?
  The Department oversees universities, colleges and polytechnics across Odisha, including institutions under the Directorate of Higher Education.
• What is the accreditation status of institutions in Odisha?
  Institutions under the Department are subject to accreditation by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), coordinated through the Directorate of Higher Education.
• Does the Department of Higher Education engage in international collaborations?
  Yes, the Department actively engages in international collaborations, including partnerships with institutions like IGNOU and support from international organizations for quality improvement projects.
• What are the future goals of the Department of Higher Education?
  The future goals include increasing the Gross Enrollment Ratio in higher education, enhancing infrastructure, promoting research and improving employability among graduates.

Organization Name

Department of Higher Education of Orissa

Acronym

Year of Establishment

1/01/2010

Control Type

Public

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

Local or Regional

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

Bhubaneswar
Orissa India

Phone

Fax

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

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Department of Higher Education of Orissa's X page

LinkedIn

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Wikipedia Article

Department of Higher Education of Orissa's Wikipedia article

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