SCERT to Make Computer Study Mandatory at Schools in Telengana

Computer study could become compulsory subject from Class VIII from the next academic session in the Telangana State as the State Council of Education and Research Training (SCERT) has sent proposals to the Telengana Government regarding the same. It has also sent proposal to create 4,550 posts for computer teachers in the state.

In order to implement the same the state government would need to bear an expenditure of Rs. 106.86 crore in the first year. This would include procurement of necessary computers for every schools, teachers salary and connectivity charges. The recurring annual cost of Rs. 40.95 crore would also get included in the overall budget.

The SCERT consultant Upender Reddy said, “Earlier, the same subject was introduced in identified schools as co-curricular area without any regular period of instructions and assessment. The instructors used to handle classes for basic skills only. In view of the explosion of Information and Communication Technology, every student should be computer-literate.”

Jagannath Reddy, the Director of SCERT further added, “The purpose would be served only if it is introduced as one of the curricular subjects with appropriate assessment procedures. The earlier experience of implementing the scheme through private agencies proved ineffective. There are about 4,550 government high schools in Telangana and since there would be requirement of 4,550 computer instructors, the existing Secondary Grade Teacher posts may be converted for these recruitments. “

Important Points

• Computer education to be made compulsory at schools in Telengana by SCERT
• Proposal to recruit 4550 computer teachers in the State
• An expenditure budget of Rs 106.86 has been proposed for the purpose