NEP will shape India's future generations: Union official

 Tirupati: Union secretary (School Education and Literacy) Sanjay Kumar asserted that National Education Policy (NEP) – 2020 will change the foundational DNA for Indian society, revolutionise the entire Indian education system, and shape future generations of the country.

Launching a two-day all-India conference on “National Curriculum Framework for School Education” at the Kasturba Kalakshetra in Nellore on Sunday under the auspices of State Education Department, Sanjay Kumar highlighted the cultural and linguistic diversity of India.

He maintained that NEP-2020 is pivotal in maintaining the integrity and superiority of the nation. He likened the new education system to DNA of Indian society, foreseeing it as a driving force that will propel India’s development over the next 25 years.

Addressing the issue of dropout rates, the union secretary underlined that efforts should be made to achieve 100 per cent enrolment rate by 2030. Commending the efforts of Andhra Pradesh, particularly through Nadu-Nedu programme, Sanjay lauded the state government's commitment to revolutionary changes, providing essential infrastructure, training teachers through institutions like IIM and incorporating technologies such as digital platforms.

AP chief secretary (Education) Praveen Prakash provided a detailed overview of transformative changes brought about by the state in school education. He showcased his PowerPoint presentation, illustrating modernisation of 45,000 schools at a cost of Rs 13,000 crore, conversion of 6,000 high school classrooms into a digital platform, and widespread use of artificial intelligence.

“The state has embraced modern teaching methods, providing students and teachers with tabs and opportunities to learn foreign languages through apps like Duolingo,” Prakash stated. He disclosed the state's efforts towards connecting engineering colleges with school complexes and guiding students towards future technologies. He mentioned introduction of bilingual textbooks and addition of TOEFL exam as a subject.

The chief secretary also mentioned plans of AP government to introduce International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum by June 2025, aligning with the vision of Andhra Pradesh.

National Institute of Education Research and Training director Dinesh Prasad Saklani, state education commissioner Suresh Kumar, and district collector M. Hari Narayanan were present.

Union secretary visited exhibition stalls showcasing the state’s initiatives like Mana Badi - Nadu Nedu, Pradhan Mantri Poshan – Jagananna Gorumudda, Learning Development Programme and Jagananna Vidya Kanuka.