Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Nara Lokesh on Wednesday (April 1) directed officials to introduce special coaching programs for students in government junior colleges to help them secure top positions in IIT and NEET exams.
In a review meeting held at his residence in Undavalli with officials from the Department of Intermediate, Higher Education and Skill Development, the minister said that dedicated coaching centers should be set up in the four residential schools of AP and four Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBV) in each region to provide intensive training.
Expressing satisfaction over the progress of the ‘Akshara Andhra’ programme, the minister noted that more than 24.7 million adults had passed the literacy tests this year, increasing the literacy rate from 73% to 83%. He urged officials to aim for full literacy by next year.
In the skills development sector, 1.95 million individuals gained employment and more than 6.8 million people received training. Plans for skills centres, industry collaboration and a single education platform to improve job opportunities and streamline education systems have also been reviewed.
Published – 02 Apr 2026 0:09 IST
