Andhra Pradesh government has partnered with the International Baccalaureate (IB), a renowned global leader in education, to revamp the curriculum offered by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT).
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the government and IB signifies a significant step towards integrating the IB curriculum into the educational framework of Andhra Pradesh. This collaboration was announced by the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, YS Mohan Reddy, at the Camp office on January 31, 2024. The implementation of the IB curriculum is scheduled to commence for class 1 students in the academic year 2025-26, with plans to extend it to all students up to class 10 by the academic year 2034-35. Subsequently, by the year 2036-37, the curriculum will be extended to class 12 students, enabling them to receive Joint IB and State board certifications by April 2035.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is globally recognized for its commitment to fostering inquiring, knowledgeable, and compassionate young individuals who contribute to creating a more harmonious and enlightened world through education that emphasizes intercultural awareness and mutual respect.
Chief Minister Reddy expressed his enthusiasm for this transformative initiative, emphasizing the importance of integrating the IB program into the government’s educational framework from primary to senior secondary levels. This strategic move aims to elevate the educational standards in Andhra Pradesh by aligning them with global benchmarks, nurturing critical thinking skills, promoting practical application of knowledge, and enhancing overall educational quality. By incorporating the IB curriculum into the SCERT board, the government seeks to usher in a progressive shift in educational practices, curriculum design, and the establishment of new educational standards.
The IB Curriculum encompasses comprehensive training and development programs for teaching staff, school administrators, as well as officials from various educational bodies such as MEOs, DEOs, SCERT, and District Institute of Educational Training (DIET). Teachers will have the opportunity to join the IB global teacher network and acquire IB certifications, enhancing their professional growth and expertise.
Olli-Pekka Heinonen, the Director General of IB, expressed gratitude towards Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy for his unwavering support in bringing this partnership to fruition. He highlighted the commitment of IB, as a non-profit educational organization, to creating a positive impact on the world through education. The collaboration between Andhra Pradesh government and IB signifies a significant milestone in advancing educational standards and opportunities for students in the region.