Odisha Gears Up for Major BRICS Education Meetings: What to Expect?

Preparations Underway for BRICS Education Meetings in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: The city of Bhubaneswar in Odisha is preparing to host the BRICS India Chairship Education Track Meetings from August 5 to 7. This significant event will see participation from over 200 delegates, including Education Ministers and senior officials from BRICS nations.

In anticipation of the meetings, Chief Secretary Anu Garg led a high-level preparatory session at Lok Seva Bhavan on Friday to assess the arrangements and ensure everything runs smoothly.

The meetings are scheduled to take place at Hotel Mayfair Lagoon, where eight Education Ministers and approximately 40 senior officials, along with representatives from the Government of India and other BRICS member countries, will convene. The 3rd BRICS Education Senior Officials’ Meeting is set for August 5.

On August 6, discussions among Education Ministers and senior officials will occur, culminating in the 13th BRICS Education Ministers’ Meeting on August 7. Delegates will also tour the World Skill Centre in Bhubaneswar as part of the official agenda.

The focus of the BRICS India Chairship is on fostering resilience, innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development through a people-centric approach.

Key topics on the agenda include enhancing early childhood education, expanding skill development initiatives, and promoting mutual cooperation through the BRICS Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Cooperation Alliance. Other discussions will cover collaborative research, innovation, start-ups, mutual recognition of qualifications (MRQs), and capacity building for academic leadership.

During the preparatory meeting, K.M. Praphullachandra Sharma, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Education, participated virtually to provide insights on the program and coordination strategies.

Officials also reviewed logistics for delegate arrivals, security protocols, transportation, accommodation, and coordination with embassies.

Additionally, plans for cultural events, local sightseeing, medical services, ambulance availability, and inter-departmental collaboration were discussed.

Chief Secretary Anu Garg emphasized the importance of inter-departmental cooperation and assured that the Odisha Government would provide full support to ensure the successful hosting of this international event.