Odisha's New ShaktiShree App: A Game Changer for Women's Education

Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has launched the ShaktiShree mobile application and new internship guidelines to enhance women's education in the state. The app aims to improve safety and accessibility for female students, offering features like SOS alerts and mental health support. The internship guidelines are designed to integrate academic learning with real-world experience, preparing students for the workforce. This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing skill development and innovation. The launch was part of a national workshop attended by key education ministers, highlighting Odisha's commitment to becoming a leading knowledge hub.

By Ambika Singh May 2, 2026, 18:37 IST

Empowering Women in Education

Bhubaneswar: On Saturday, Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi introduced the 'ShaktiShree' mobile application and presented a new internship guideline book aimed at enhancing higher education in the state.

These initiatives were unveiled during a two-day national workshop attended by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj.

The ShaktiShree app is designed to bolster support systems for female students by improving safety and accessibility within higher education institutions.

Features include 24/7 SOS alerts, anonymous harassment reporting, mental health resources, and connections to Internal Complaints Committees at institutions.

Additionally, the Chief Minister launched the internship guidelines, which aim to bridge academic learning with practical experience, preparing students for the workforce through internships, community involvement, and skill-based education in accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

In his address, CM Majhi emphasized that education extends beyond textbooks, serving as a cornerstone for progress and innovation, and reiterated the government's commitment to transforming Odisha into a prominent knowledge hub.

Minister Pradhan remarked that NEP 2020 represents a 'national mission' to establish India as a global knowledge leader, highlighting the critical role of skill development and innovation.

He commended Odisha for its unique cultural and educational blend, stressing the significance of these elements in shaping the future workforce.

Minister Suraj characterized the initiative as a pivotal advancement, stating, 'The launch of the ShaktiShree App and the internship guidelines signifies a new chapter in Odisha's higher education landscape. These initiatives will equip students, particularly young women, with the necessary tools, exposure, and confidence to thrive in a rapidly changing global environment.'

The workshop provided a forum for policymakers, educators, and institutional leaders to discuss effective strategies for implementing NEP-2020.

Discussions during the event centered on improving the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER), encouraging multidisciplinary education, and enhancing collaboration between industry and academia.