Education Is the Key to Social Transformation, Says Minister Lokesh

As Andhra Pradesh pushes ahead with reforms in the education sector, Education Minister Nara Lokesh on Wednesday said he chose the state's most demanding portfolio with a clear objective - to use education as a catalyst for transforming society . Stressing that long-term progress can only be achieved through quality education, he urged teachers, parents, students and communities to work together in building an "AP Model of Education" that can set new benchmarks for learning outcomes.

The minister made the remarks while inaugurating newly constructed buildings at the Zilla Parishad High School in Kokkiligadda village , Mopidevi mandal of Krishna district. The facilities were built at a cost of ₹1.4 crore with support from donors under the government's P-4 initiative , which promotes public participation in developmental activities.

Interacting with teachers and students, Lokesh said the government has spent the past two years strengthening school infrastructure and implementing key reforms across the education system. With much of the groundwork now completed, the focus will shift towards improving student performance, learning standards and academic excellence .

He said teachers should devote their energies to enhancing classroom outcomes, assuring them that administrative issues can now be addressed more efficiently through the LEAP App . The digital platform allows educators to directly communicate concerns and grievances to the Education Department, reducing the need for repeated visits to government offices.

To strengthen parental involvement in education, the minister announced that Parent-Teacher Meetings would be conducted across the state on July 16, 17 and 18. Teachers were asked to encourage parents to download the LEAP App and actively monitor their children's academic progress.

Lokesh also revealed plans to introduce Clicker Technology and PAL Labs in schools to make learning more interactive and technology-driven. In addition, the government will provide Bridge Course material to help students overcome learning gaps and improve foundational skills. He noted that academic setbacks, particularly among Class 10 girls, often lead to broader social challenges, underscoring the need for timely support.

In a lighter moment, the minister joked with students that their examination results would determine his own performance rating. "If you study well, the Chief Minister will give me good marks. If you don't, I'll get minus marks," he said, drawing laughter from the audience.

Lokesh also announced that Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Vidya Kits and footwear would soon be distributed to students. He later felicitated Kamarajugadda Bala Venkata Satya Prasad , Chairman of Sri Bhramarambika Processing Company , and other donors for their contribution to the school's development.