Sambalpur: Demand for Land and Building for GM Higher Secondary School Intensifies; Collector Promises Immediate Action

Meeting Held to Expedite Process

Sambalpur: The demand for allocating separate land and constructing buildings for Gangadhar Meher (GM) Higher Secondary School has intensified. Various organizations have agreed to submit a memorandum to the District Collector on the 20th, following a decision made during a citizens’ meeting at the Sambalpur Journalists’ Hall.

Land Identified in Professor Colony

As per a previous government decision, 2.7 acres in Professor Colony, along with additional government land and nearby areas as required, have been identified for the institution. The meeting concluded that a proposal would be submitted to the government to allocate this land for the school.

Current Issues with Infrastructure

The meeting highlighted that despite GM College being a key center of higher education in the state, the GM Higher Secondary School, which separated from GM College in 1998, still lacks independent land and facilities. Even after 26 years, the school operates with limited space and resources. The science department has 288 seats, arts 512, and commerce 320, requiring at least 36 classrooms. However, the school currently only has 11 rooms, forcing classrooms to accommodate 128 students instead of 48.

Challenges in Practical Learning and Library Resources

Students learn about new technologies in practical science classes, yet the labs still operate with outdated 1998 equipment. The library also lacks sufficient books, affecting students who primarily come from rural areas and nearby districts.

Student Accommodation Needs

Many students need hostel facilities, yet only two hostels, each with a capacity of 300 beds, are available. The school urgently needs two additional hostels for both boys and girls.

Dependency on GM University

The GM Higher Secondary School’s dependence on GM University affects both institutions’ operations. During the tenure of MLA Dr. Raseshwari Panigrahi and District Collector Balwant Singh, it was decided that land in Professor Colony would be allocated for the school. However, despite many years, this decision has not been implemented.

Collector’s Response

The GM University has proposed allocating 2.7 acres in Professor Colony and 2.05 acres in Malipada to the higher secondary school. The District Collector, Siddheshwar Baliram Bondar, confirmed that the land in Professor Colony has been identified for this purpose and that the Tehsildar has been directed to expedite the process. If the school agrees to relocate, there will be no issues.

Notable Attendees

Citizens present at the meeting expressed the need for immediate action to implement the decision. Former college vice-principal Dr. Kamadeb Sahu, senior journalist Priyaranjan Sahu, teacher Dr. Bishwaranjan Pujari, and other prominent figures attended the meeting. Former student Dr. Sanjeeb Mishra coordinated the program.