V. S. SENTHIL ADDITIONAL CHIEF SECRETARY TO GOVERNMENT
General Education Department Government of Kerala Thiruvananthapuram
Phone: 0471- 2331509, 2518997
Dated: 13.05.2016
Message
The 21st century world has already taken bold leaps in promoting skill-based education and creating new educational paradigms. The State of Kerala has responded quickly to these reforms and has embraced the concept of skill acquisition through education. The Additional Skill Acquisition Programme( ASAP), a joint effort of the General and Higher Education Departments of the Government of Kerala in promoting skill-based education in Higher Secondary Schools and Undergraduate Colleges is a firm step in this direction.
The programme is now operational in 839 Schools and has impacted upon the quality of education in these institutions in a significant manner. Also, the infrastructure created by ASAP, such as the computer labs, in the schools is not only benefitting the programme, but the institution as a whole and its student community. The skill culture created by the programme in the schools is here to stay and will evolve over the years. In short, the programme has contributed significantly to the development of General Education in the State. When we look back during the fourth year of existence of ASAP, the road travelled has been one with considerable challenges. However, it is worth noting that the Programme has successfully integrated into the operational structure of our higher secondary schools and colleges. The annual report 2014-15 gives a bird’ s eye view of the programme and its several achievements. The lives of hundreds of students have changed significantly due to the impact created by the programme.
The road ahead is equally exciting and full of dreams and promises. Let us take the pledge of taking the journey together to bring more prosperity to our state. I wish the programme and its future endeavours the very best.
V. S. SENTHIL ADDITIONAL CHIEF SECRETARY TO GOVERNMENT