ANDHRA PRADESH MAKES ‘ENGLISH MEDIUM’ COMPULSORY IN ALL DEGREE COLLEGES

The Andhra Pradesh Government has decided to make ‘English Medium’ compulsory across all Government, Private Aided and Unaided Degree colleges in the state from the academic year 2021-22. The Department of Higher Education of Andhra Pradesh strongly feels that the introduction of English medium education at the UG level would enhance the career prospects of graduates. According to the findings in the India Skills Report of 2019, English figured among the top three skills, along with learning agility and adaptability, that employers look for in India.

Out of nearly 2.62 Lakh students who have taken admissions into degree colleges across the state, only 65,981 students are admitted into Telugu medium background during 2020-21. Out of 65981 Telugu medium students, 24007, 16925, and 24960 have enrolled themselves in BA, B.com, and BSc courses respectively. This particular decision is bound to immensely benefit these students as well.

A 2016 report of Cambridge University titled ‘Findings of English at Work: Global analysis of language skills in workplace’ highlights that about 90% of employers look for in India say that English language skills are important for their organization.

A majority of BSc students have been seen to have taken up opportunities across the country, and in some cases abroad. Considering, this proficiency in the English language becomes essential for opening up new avenues for the students and ensuring their career growth.

Data proves that a large number of BA graduates prefer getting into sales and marketing, apart from journalism and research. Keeping in mind, the fact that most companies have started to prefer multilingual candidates and the emphasis on English, it is essential that the students pursue their UG in English medium.

Moreover, With the advent of top-notch technology, the commerce industry has become highly dynamic, fast-paced and algorithm/software-oriented in the last two decades. Therefore, the English language serves as an essential tool for professionals in the industry who are in the process of becoming highly successful.