India Today Summit Applauds AP’s Education, Insights from CM Jagan

The India Today Summit representatives commended the fresh initiatives in Andhra Pradesh’s education sector. As part of this acknowledgment, CM Jagan participated in the India Today Education Summit held in Tirupati. During the event, discussions centered around the newly introduced policies in the AP education sector, such as Mana Badi Nadu Nedu, Jagananna Vidya Kanuka, Jagananna Gorumudda and TOEFL training. Addressing these topics, senior journalist Rajdeep Sardesai posed several questions to CM Jagan.

Telugu on One Page, English on the Other

The conference attendees from India Today expressed delight in hosting an education-focused event in the spiritual city of Tirupati. Subsequently, in the interview with Jagan, criticism arose regarding the introduction of TOEFL awareness from the third grade, with a suggestion that it be taught in Telugu. Responding to this concern, Jagan queried those who opposed English medium instruction in government schools about the language in which their children were studying. He also addressed the potential risk of students dropping out due to the sudden introduction of English medium, stating that the textbooks now feature Telugu on one page and English on the other, alongside the inclusion of topics from internationally renowned BYJU’S.

IB Syllabus

Regarding the IB Syllabus, CM Jagan disclosed that collaboration with the State Secondary Education Board is underway, currently focusing on enhancing teachers’ skills. The plan is to implement the IB Syllabus starting from the first class after June 2025, gradually extending it up to the seventh class. CM Jagan expressed optimism that, within five years, students from the state would be competing for international baccalaureate certificates.

Reflecting on the state of the education sector when he assumed office, CM Jagan noted its dire condition and outlined efforts to reduce dropouts through infrastructure development, mid-day meal schemes, and Jagananna Amma Vodi. He highlighted the innovative Jagananna Gorumudda midday meal scheme, providing nutritious daily menus. In 2018, the percentage of students joining school in AP was 84.48%, which has now surpassed the national average, reaching 99.21%.