AP partners with EdX; students can pursue over 2,000 online courses from top universities

AMARAVATHI: In a landmark move, the Andhra Pradesh Government has entered into a strategic partnership with the leading education portal EdX. Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy hailed this collaboration as a golden chapter in the history of education in the State, emphasising the Government's commitment to providing quality education to all.

"We believe that education is not just a right but also a key to unlocking a brighter future. It is imperative that we offer our children education of international standards, enabling them to compete globally and secure better opportunities," said YS Jagan.

As per the agreement, more than 12 lakh students of the State would be able to pursue over 2,000 EdX online courses offered by world-class universities and other educational institutions for free along with their regular courses and get certificates.

Also Read: Andhra Pradesh signs MoU with IB system of education for government schools

"Through EdX, more than 2,000 courses from renowned institutions like IMIT, LSE, and Harvard will be available to our students. These courses will be integrated into our curriculum, and students will receive credits upon completion," YS Jagan announced.

Jagan also assured that if the students secure a seat in any of the 320 colleges within the top 50 ranked Universities, the Government would provide financial support of up to Rs 1.2 crore.

Highlighting the Government's focus on quality education, he emphasised the need to compete not just nationally but on a global scale.

"If we fail to provide quality education, we risk falling behind others. Our children deserve better jobs and salaries, which are attainable only through quality education," he explained.

The Government has already taken significant steps in this direction, introducing English medium in Government schools and initiating programmes like Nadu-Nedu, Amma Vodi, and Gorumudda. These initiatives are aimed at improving the quality of education from primary to higher levels.

"As we progress, our focus is not only on primary and secondary education but also on higher education. We understand the importance of investing in human resources and are dedicated to bringing about meaningful change," YS Jagan remarked.

To further enhance the education system, the Government is digitising classrooms from the sixth standard onwards, providing tablets to facilitate learning, and integrating content from Byjus. Additionally, the Government has signed an MoU with the International Baccalaureate (IB) organization to introduce IB education for tenth-grade students over the next decade.

Also Read: International Baccalaureate Director-General lauds partnership with AP Government

The Government's commitment to education is also evident in its efforts to remove barriers to education. "Poverty should not hinder a child's education. We provide full fee reimbursement and accommodation to students, ensuring that financial constraints do not limit their access to quality education," Chief Minister Jagan stated.

The Government has also focused on improving the quality of higher education, with a significant increase in the number of NAAC-accredited institutions in the state. Furthermore, plans are underway to fill 3,295 vacant posts in 18 universities, demonstrating the Government's commitment to strengthening the higher education sector.

"In our efforts towards digital education, we have introduced bilingual textbooks and over 400 bilingual podcasts, extending this initiative even to the degree level," Jagan said.

"Since 2019, we have made remarkable progress in accrediting educational institutions. From a mere 257 NAAC-accredited institutions, today, we proudly stand with 437 accredited institutions in Andhra Pradesh," he added.

"Education is the most valuable asset we can give to our children. It is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and securing a better future. By providing quality education, we are empowering our children to succeed," YS Jagan concluded.