Lokesh Vows To Make AP Universities World-class

Addressing the vice chancellors of all government universities on Monday, Lokesh assured Governor and Chancellor S. Abdul Nazeer that the government would provide full support to elevate academic standards while protecting the autonomy of universities to govern themselves and identify talent.

The minister emphasized that universities play a crucial role in building a knowledge-based society and called upon VCs to act as leaders and ambassadors for change. He identified five key areas to strengthen higher education in the state.

First, he highlighted the need to bridge the gap between teaching and market requirements, urging curriculum updates to meet international standards. He pointed out that degrees lacking relevance and employability lose credibility in both domestic and global job markets.

Second, Lokesh stressed improving employment opportunities through internships, apprenticeships, placements, and stronger industry-university linkages. Third, he called for bolstering research, innovation, and startups, which remain weak in many institutions. Fourth, he urged universities to prioritise academic quality over administrative matters, dedicating more time and resources to teaching excellence.

Finally, he noted that students require proper guidance, welfare, and psychological support to succeed academically.

He noted multi-disciplinary education, reviewing syllabi, and enhancing skill development programs to make degrees globally competitive. He stressed linking universities with industries and aligning curricula with market needs are essential for creating graduates equipped for both employment and entrepreneurship.

Lokesh’s call reflects a push towards modernizing Andhra Pradesh’s higher education sector and ensuring its universities gain international recognition while meeting local and global challenges.