The minister, responding to questions in the state assembly, noted that completing the construction of compound walls for schools across the state would require an investment of Rs 3,000 crore.

He said, “During the previous YSR Congress government’s term, no DSC was released. During the last 30 years of Telugu Desam rule, 13 DSCs were conducted, resulting in the filling of 180,272 teacher positions. Between 2014 and 2019, under the leadership of Chandrababu Naidu, the TD government held three DSCs in 2014, 2018, and 2019, successfully filling 16,701 teacher positions.”

On measures against drug abuse, Lokesh stated that a campaign titled “Drugs: No Bro” is being launched.

He emphasized the need to educate students about the destructive impact of substances like marijuana and announced the establishment of Eagle Clubs in every school to raise awareness. These clubs will be activated after the 10th-grade and intermediate examinations across all schools and colleges in the state.

Lokesh said that approximately Rs 3,000 crore will be required for the construction of compound walls in government schools. The project will be executed in phases using funds from employment guarantee schemes and the “Mana Badi Mana Bhavishyathu” initiative.

He said the government is committed to enhancing school infrastructure. During a recent mega Parent-Teacher meeting, they had assigned star ratings based on the infrastructure and outcomes of schools. Schools rated 1 or 2 stars, lacking basic facilities, would receive leak-proof buildings, benches, toilets and drinking water facilities.

Lokesh alleged that the previous government, through implementing 117 government orders, hindered education for underprivileged children, resulting in a dropout of 1.2 million students in government schools.

He said discussions are ongoing with public representatives and teacher organisations regarding alternatives to 117 GO. “Details on the incomplete works under the Nadu-Nedu programme are being collected to ensure their completion. Following discussions on the alternatives to 117 GO, the government plans to address teacher transfers and infrastructure development.”

Lokesh said many schools that commenced work under the Nadu-Nedu initiative faced allegations, leading to closures due to the 117 GO. “The government intends to gather a report on the issues related to the Nadu-Nedu programme and take necessary actions based on discussions with the members. In the Rampachodavaram constituency, 80 schools require infrastructural support, and plans will be made to fulfill these needs through a special scheme.”

The education minister stated that in the next three months, the government would install CCTV and lights in schools. He urged members to collaborate with the government to enhance basic facilities in schools and improve their star ratings through the Learning Excellence in Andhra Pradesh (LEAP) programme.