In a diverse yet unified country like India, the concept of an integrated residential educational hub represents a forward-thinking approach. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Anumula Revanth Reddy, the Congress government in Telangana has taken a decision that is set to revolutionize the education landscape. Many view this initiative as a contemporary solution to the challenges facing our education system today.
Brainchild of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, the initiative aims to foster camaraderie, integrity, and unity among children from all societal strata. It reflects his vision to instil in young minds values, particularly of unity and integrity, right from their formative years.
Currently, work is underway on pilot projects planned at Kodangal and Madhira. Administrative approvals have already been granted for these educational hubs. These institutions will consolidate schools catering to children from SC, ST, BC, and Minority communities into a single campus. This innovative approach eliminates the need for separate school buildings across different locations.
Each hub will feature shared facilities for sports, recreation, skill development, alongside exclusive classrooms and dormitories for respective groups. This integration not only optimizes government spending on maintenance but also enhances oversight of educational and extracurricular activities.
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is dedicated to enhancing basic education throughout the state and his primary goal is to lay a strong academic foundation and hone practical skills among young learners. He emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive improvements across government-run educational institutions.
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy envisions Telangana becoming a role model for fostering unity in diversity. This initiative aims to cultivate a sense of belonging among communities, a cornerstone of a vibrant society. Students from these institutions are expected to embody a true sense of Indian identity.
The integrated educational hub concept in Telangana exemplifies the principles of federalism, promoting equal development and educational opportunities for all communities. Though currently in its pilot phase, this initiative is anticipated to yield significant benefits in the future.
Recently, the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister reviewed architectural models for the proposed educational hub structures in a meeting. The project is designed for swift completion, promising to transform the campus into a dynamic learning environment that offers students a fresh educational experience. These campuses will be developed across all constituencies in a phased approach.
Each integrated residential school complex will occupy 20-25 acres of land, consolidated into ‘mini education hubs’ at centralized locations. Government sources indicate that this strategy aims to enhance student talent and foster a competitive spirit while eradicating discrimination on caste and religious lines.
ITIs to boost employability
The efforts and initiatives aimed at skill development among the youth are poised to be the cornerstone for job creation and employability in the state. In a significant move, the Chief Minister has decided to transform ITIs into Advanced Training Centres (ATCs). The goal is to train young people in advanced technologies that meet current industry requirements, enhancing their employability and enabling them to contribute to the state’s economic growth.
This significant initiative, estimated to cost Rs 2,324 crore in all, encompasses 29 modern courses. An agreement with Tata Technologies Limited (TTL) has been formalized to support this endeavor. Approximately 4.70 lakh youth are expected to be trained in these ATCs over the next 10 years. These initiatives are set to transform the landscape of education, learning, and employment in next-generation Telangana.
The government is simultaneously focusing on enhancing academic standards and improving skill development among the youth. This comprehensive approach aligns with global standards and aims to elevate the capabilities of the youth, positioning them to compete and succeed on an international level.
(The writer is CPRO to Telangana Chief Minister)
