VISAKHAPATNAM: In the remote tribal areas of Paderu in Alluri Sitarama Raju district, education is witnessing a promising transformation. The “Super 50” initiative by the Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) is nurturing budding talent, helping students unlock their potential and aim for academic excellence.
Launched in 2023, the programme selects 50 promising Class X students and provides specialised coaching to help them excel in their public exams. The initiative is now in its second year, transforming educational opportunities for tribal students and inspiring a new generation of learners.
The programme is the brainchild of Paderu ITDA Project Officer V Abishek, who sees it as more than just an academic support system. “The idea is to create role models among these students who can show their peers that education can open doors to a brighter future,” Abishek said. The programme focuses on improving academic outcomes for the selected students and serves as an inspiration for other students across Paderu’s 11 mandals.
The current batch of students includes 29 girls, who receive coaching at the Government Ashram School for Girls in Guttulaputtu. The boys are coached at Digumodaputtu. Their daily routine includes meditation, yoga, and morning study sessions. The PO often takes classes for the students in his free time, further emphasising his commitment to their education.
A distinctive feature of the programme is its ‘Sunday Movie’ sessions, where students watch motivational films and later write assignments on their takeaways. “It helps us understand their perspectives and guide them better,” Abishek said. The combination of holistic activities and rigorous academics is designed to equip students with both knowledge and life skills.
The success of the programme is evident in the 2023-24 SSC results. Out of the 50 students, 24 scored above 500 marks out of 600, with a girl from GK Veedhi achieving 585 marks—a first for the region. A total of 37 students secured admission to prestigious government-run colleges in Vizag, Kakinada, and the NTR district. “These results prove that tribal students can achieve great things with the right support and guidance,” Abishek remarked.
To motivate the students, they were given watches, pens, and certificates of appreciation at the start of the programme. Abishek explained, “The watch signifies that their good time has started, and it reminds them to stay patient and focused.”
Looking ahead, Abishek believes that the “Super 50” initiative will create a ripple effect, motivating the entire community to prioritise education. “It’s not just about these 50 students. It’s about how they can inspire others and motivate the entire community to prioritise education,” he concluded.
