C Pradeep Kumar
Vijayawada
The Andhra Pradesh Government, led by Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, is scripting a transformational story in education. Their mission? To provide free and quality education to all, regardless of socio-economic status. This groundbreaking initiative, part of the flagship programme ‘Navaratnalu’ by the YSRCP government, entails an array of schemes and reforms designed to alleviate the financial burden on students and uplift the standard of education across the state.
‘Amma Vodi’: Empowering mothers
In 2019, the Jagan Mohan Reddy government launched the ‘Amma Vodi’ scheme, a lifeline for economically disadvantaged mothers. Its purpose: to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder their children’s education. Over the past three years, a staggering Rs 19,674.34 crore has been disbursed, benefiting an impressive 44.48 lakh mothers. This initiative embodies the government’s commitment to transforming dreams into reality.
‘Nadu-Nedu’: Transforming schools
The ‘Nadu-Nedu’ project stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to redefining the education landscape. Currently, a monumental 37,958 government schools in Andhra Pradesh are undergoing a transformative makeover. Phase 1 alone saw 15,717 schools renovated at an expenditure of Rs 3,669 crores, while Phase 2 earmarks Rs 8,000 Crores for the development of another 22,344 schools. These efforts are propelling the state’s educational infrastructure toward global standards.
‘Gorumudda’: Ensuring nutritious meals to kids
Addressing the nutritional needs of 45,854 government and government-aided schools, the ‘Jagananna Gorumudda’ scheme is a beacon of health and well-being. With an investment of Rs 3,590 crore, this initiative provides a daily menu of highly nutritious food, including Ragi Malt drinks, boiled eggs, and jaggery candied peanut bars. By nourishing young minds, the government is laying the foundation for a brighter and healthier future.
Promoting digital learning
To bridge the gap between private and public schools, nearly 10,000 Smart TVs have been installed in government schools, fostering digital learning practices. This move aims to deliver high-quality education, ensuring that no student is left behind.
‘Vidya Kanuka’: Easing burden on parents
The ‘Jagananna Vidya Kanuka’ scheme seeks to make schooling a joyful and fulfilling experience. Each academic year, 47 Lakh students receive a kit containing books, uniforms, and essential school supplies, amounting to an expenditure of Rs 2,368 Crores. This endeavor alleviates financial strain on parents and empowers students to excel in their studies.
Empowering students through EM edu
Recognising the importance of English proficiency in a globalised world, the Jagan Mohan Reddy government introduced mandatory bilingual instruction in every government school. This initiative ensures that students, regardless of their economic background, have equal access to opportunities.
Enhancing learning outcomes
Strategic measures have been taken to improve learning outcomes. Students from classes 3 to 5 are mapped with high schools within a one-kilometer radius, and subject teachers are provided to students from classes 3 to 10. To combat dropout rates among girls after high school, the government has established at least one junior college for girls in 679 mandals.
Embracing digital edu
In a digital age, the government has procured 5.18 lakh tablets with Byju’s content for VIII class students during the Academic Year 2022-23, investing Rs. 686 Crores. Interactive Flat Panels and Smart TVs will soon grace every classroom in all schools, fostering a tech-savvy generation. Byju’s e-content is also accessible to 32 lakh students from classes 4 to 10 who possess smartphones or devices.
Andhra Pradesh’s commitment to education under the leadership of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is poised to create a brighter, more equitable future for all, where education is the key to unlocking limitless opportunities.
Commissioner of School Infrastructure, Katamneni Bhaskar, stated, “We are in the process of implementing the Digital Education system in a three-phase approach across all government schools, including Aided Schools. Digital Education will make its debut in these schools starting in the 2024-25 academic year. Specifically, this initiative will be introduced in approximately 15,900 schools where the ‘Nadu Nedu’ infrastructure upgrades have already been completed in the initial phase. We are allocating substantial resources, nearly Rs 334 crore, for the acquisition of approximately 30,000 Interactive Flat Panel Displays (IFPDs) for high schools and 10,000 Smart TVs for primary schools.”
Bhaskar further elaborated, “In high schools, we plan to equip each classroom with IFPDs, while in primary schools, one Smart TV will be installed for every 60 students, facilitating enhanced learning experiences.” Mary and Harika, both 10th-grade students, expressed their enthusiasm, stating, “We are truly impressed by the teaching methods facilitated through digital screens. It has proven immensely beneficial in comprehending what our teachers convey in class, especially with the use of 3D images and animated demonstrations. We find it much easier to grasp concepts in physical science and social studies through these instructional videos compared to traditional chalkboard lectures.”
