The best students were invited to become role models at the Shining Stars event

Students writing about their dreams during the Shining Stars award program at Maris Stella College in Vijayawada on Monday. | Photo credit: KVS Giri

The state government encourages students who excel in examinations by recognizing them as shining stars and this support should inspire them to achieve greater heights and become role models for others, said NTR District Collector G. Lakshmisha.

Addressing students during the Shining Stars Awards-2026 program organized by the Department of School Education and Samagra Shiksha at Maris Stella College auditorium in Vijayawada on Monday, Mr. Lakshmisha recalled his school days when he was awarded a dictionary for high marks in Class V.

He remembered the joy on his mother’s face when he showed her the prize. That was a defining moment for him, he said, adding that it inspired him to strive for excellence.

Vijayawada East MLA Gadde Rammohan told the students to work hard and study as education has the power to change the future of an entire family. Lanka Dinakar, Chairperson of the Committee for the Implementation of the Twenty-Point Program, also spoke on this occasion.

District Library Organization Chairman MS Beg, District Secondary Education Officer B. Prabhakar Rao, officials from Samagra Shiksha, parents and students also attended.

A total of 175 students were felicitated during the event, including 135 students who scored excellent marks in Class X examinations and 40 intermediate students who excelled academically. Each student received a cash prize of ₹20,000 along with a medal and certificate.

Published – 20 Jul 2026 23:51 IST