VIJAYAWADA: Human Resource Development, IT, and Electronics Minister Nara Lokesh on Monday approved the launch of the ‘Kalalaku Rekkalu’ scheme to support girls’ higher education starting this year. He also suggested steps to improve academic outcomes and proposed honouring top performers of Class X as ‘Shining Stars’.
Furthermore, he directed officials to ensure smooth and transparent conduct of the mega District Selection Committee (DSC) examination, scheduled to begin on June 6.
Chairing a high-level review meeting with officials from the School, Intermediate, and Higher Education Departments at his Undavalli residence, the HRD minister emphasised the need for strong technical arrangements, including well-equipped TCS iON centres and functioning DSC call centres.
Lokesh clarified that TET qualifications would remain valid for DSC eligibility. Candidates can upload certificates online, with physical submission required only during verification. Lokesh directed officials to ensure a seamless process and responsive support systems.
He stressed that teacher transfers should be conducted transparently under the Teachers Transfer Act and completed before the academic year begins.
He also instructed early preparation of textbooks and student kits, emphasising that no child attending school should be left out. Regarding higher education, Lokesh called for the revival of the Ambedkar Videshi Vidya Scheme, strengthening government degree colleges, and aiming to place at least two state universities in the QS Top 100 global rankings. Quarterly release of fee reimbursement funds was announced to ensure uninterrupted education.
Additionally, 205 government libraries will be upgraded to help unemployed youth with skill development and study resources.
Lokesh has also approved junior college lecturer transfers. Senior officials present included Education Principal Secretary Kona Sasidhar and Directors Narayana Bharat Gupta, Kritika Shukla, and Vijay Rama Raju.