AP to launch IIT-NEET coaching

metro india news  I AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh Minister for Education and IT Nara Lokesh has directed officials to introduce specialised coaching programmes for junior college students with a clear focus on securing top ranks in IIT and NEET examinations. The initiative aims to strengthen competitive exam preparedness within the government education system.

During a high-level review meeting held at his Undavalli residence with officials from Intermediate, Higher Education, Skill Development, and Training departments, Lokesh instructed the establishment of dedicated coaching centres in each region. These centres will be set up across four AP Residential institutions and four Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) per region, ensuring wider access to quality training. He also emphasised the need to eliminate dropout rates at the intermediate level.

Stressing infrastructure development, Lokesh called for all government schools to be upgraded with basic facilities and achieve a three-star rating under quality benchmarks. He directed officials to mobilise Rs 2,034 crore under the ‘Mana Badi-Mana Bhavishyathu’ programme to enhance school infrastructure. Improving learning outcomes, he said, remains the government’s top priority.

The Minister issued a stern warning over the quality of mid-day meals, stating that lapses would not be tolerated. He announced surprise inspections across the state to ensure standards are maintained. Officials informed that works worth Rs 770 crore under the same scheme are currently in progress, while over 70% of Intermediate answer sheet evaluation has been completed. Free textbook distribution in government colleges is expected to conclude by April 19.

In higher education, Lokesh mandated the implementation of facial recognition-based attendance in colleges and called for simplifying approvals for new courses in private degree institutions. Highlighting progress in adult education, he noted that over 24.7 lakh people passed literacy tests under the ‘Akshara Andhra’ programme, raising literacy rates from 73% to 83%.

On skill development, officials reported that nearly 1.95 lakh people have secured jobs, while over 6.87 lakh have received training. A comprehensive ‘Nipuna’ skill portal covering 26 sectors has been developed, with further initiatives planned to boost employment and industry readiness.