Bhubaneswar: Chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday announced a policy decision to appoint Sishu Sevikas or childcare assistants in Sishu Vatikas, the pre-primary classes operating in govt schools across the state. According to sources, the state govt launched Sishu Vatikas in around 45,000 govt primary schools across Odisha, catering to children aged between five and six years from the current academic year. “Sishu Sevikas will play a crucial support role in classrooms by assisting the children and relieving teachers of non-teaching duties. This initiative will enable teachers to focus more effectively on teaching, thereby enhancing the overall quality of education in pre-primary classes,” Majhi said.“The aim of this policy decision is toward improving foundational learning environment and ensuring that children in Odisha’s govt schools receive better care and support during their formative years,” Majhi added.According to the official decision, Sishu Sevikas will receive wages equivalent to those of cooks currently working in govt schools. Their honorarium will be drawn from the Samagra Shiksha budget, which supports integrated school education.The role of Sishu Sevikas will include ensuring the safety and well-being of children in the classroom, helping them with washing hands, meals, toilet usage and classroom routines. They will also assist with distributing books and toys, accompanying children when they leave the classroom and maintain a brief daily record of each child’s well-being.However, the govt has made it clear that Sishu Sevikas will not be involved in teaching activities. They are strictly prohibited from scolding, punishing or administering any medical treatment to the children. If a child is unwell or emotionally distressed, the Sishu Sevika is expected to promptly inform the class teacher.
