Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh recently expressed concern over the state's universities falling behind in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings. During a review of the higher education sector, he emphasized the need for significant improvements and encouraged university authorities to devise a strategic plan to enhance their standings by 2027.

Minister Lokesh set ambitious targets, urging that premier institutions like Acharya Nagarjuna University and Andhra University aim for positions within the top ten of the NIRF rankings. He stressed that achieving these goals will require a thorough overhaul of the existing curriculum. This includes integrating civil engineering courses with computer science and mechanical engineering programs, which could enhance employability for graduates.

To further bolster the quality of education, Lokesh announced the formation of a governance board comprising influential industrialists. He believes that their insights and recommendations will be invaluable in implementing effective changes within the universities.

This initiative by the Andhra Pradesh government demonstrates a strong commitment to elevating the quality of higher education in the state. By aligning educational standards with industry needs, the initiative aims to benefit students and ensure they are well-prepared for the job market upon graduation.