In a landmark effort to strengthen tribal voices and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Odisha’s indigenous communities, the Central University of Odisha (CUO), Koraput, has partnered with UNICEF Odisha to set up a dedicated Tribal Communication Cell (TCC) on its campus. The initiative marks a significant step toward promoting inclusive communication, socio-economic empowerment, and deeper representation of tribal communities in the state’s development narrative.
The Letter of Intent (LoI) for the collaboration was signed on Thursday by Prof. (Dr.) N. C. Panda, Vice-Chancellor of CUO, and William Hanlon Jr., Chief of UNICEF’s Odisha Field Office. The ceremony was attended by senior officials, including Finance Officer Duryodhan Sethi; Dr. Nikhil Kumar Gouda, Head of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication; Dr. Sugata Roy, Specialist in Social and Behaviour Change, UNICEF; Public Relations Officer Dr. Phagunath Bhoi; and faculty members of the Journalism department.
Terming the initiative a milestone for the University, Prof. Panda said the Tribal Communication Cell would empower both students and local communities by nurturing inclusive communication practices. He emphasised that Koraput’s traditional crafts, knowledge systems, and unique cultural expressions deserve broader promotion and recognition. The Cell, he added, would facilitate research and contribute meaningfully to the region’s long-term development.
UNICEF’s William Hanlon Jr. highlighted that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to bringing tribal perspectives to the centre of development conversations. He noted that the TCC would be instrumental in generating evidence, building capacities, and creating platforms for meaningful dialogue—helping protect the rights and enhance the well-being of children and families living in Odisha’s tribal-dominated areas.
Dr. Nikhil Kumar Gouda outlined the key objectives of the Cell, explaining that it will serve as a hub for research, documentation, capacity building, and community engagement under the stewardship of the Journalism and Mass Communication department. With technical support from UNICEF, the TCC aims to develop communication models rooted in tribal cultures, ensuring that the lived experiences of indigenous communities are authentically represented.
The event saw participation from prominent academic and administrative figures, including Dr. Pradosh Kumar Rath, Dr. Gourav Ranjan, Mr. Sumit Kumar Behera, Dr. Sony Parhi, and Dr. Talat Jahan Begam. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Sourav Gupta, Associate Professor.
Public Relations Officer Dr. Phagunath Bhoi noted that the collaboration represents a significant step toward fostering respectful dialogue and evidence-based advocacy focused on the holistic development of tribal communities in Odisha.