Educational Challenges and the Role of Teachers in Andhra Pradesh: A Case for Institutional Initiatives

All is not well with the elementary education system in the state of Andhra Pradesh, and this research paper is an attempt to understand the current status of the system and the ills that plague it. Although the problems in the educational system are multi-dimensional, in recent times, the issue of teacher performance has assumed significance. Educational inequality, quality and teacher performance seem to have challenged not only governments at all levels, but the people at large. Official records speak volumes on this predicament that affects the marginalised far more than others. In this context, this paper attempts to discuss all such developments that impinge upon the prevailing educational scenario in the State. As policies and programmes of the Union Government also impact the status of education at the state level, an attempt is made to delineate some national interventions. While presenting a critical review of certain institutional initiatives at various levels, this paper analyses immediate concerns that deserve the attention of State and non-State agencies. As part of assessing the contribution of several stakeholders towards strengthening school management, which is a major challenge, this study also explores other related issues.