Assam is gearing up for a major overhaul of its school education and early childhood care system. Recently, World Bank officials met senior State authorities in Guwahati to finalize preparations for the ‘Assam- Supporting School Education and Adolescent Wellbeing (ASAP)’ project. This initiative, approved by the State Cabinet, is expected to kick off in early 2026. The project promises to bring sweeping reforms that aim to reduce dropout rates, improve learning outcomes, and strengthen adolescent well-being across the State.
Key Features of the ASAP Project
The project envisions the creation of model ‘Leader Schools’ and modernization of over 1,700 Anganwadi Centers. It aims to upgrade infrastructure, train teachers, and implement technology-driven governance. Aligned with the National Education Policy 2020 and Sustainable Development Goal 4, these reforms are designed to create a systemic impact. A State Resource Centre for Early Childhood Education and adolescent well-being will support the replication of successful models throughout Assam.
Challenges Assam Faces
Assam has a vast network of more than 44,000 schools, 61,000 Anganwadi Centers, over two lakh teachers, and nearly 47 lakh students. Despite this, challenges like high dropout rates, low learning proficiency, lack of trained science, mathematics, and English teachers, and substandard infrastructure persist. The ASAP project addresses these issues by introducing systemic reforms, improving teaching quality, and modernizing both schools and Anganwadi Centers to ensure better learning experiences.
Reforms and Implementation Plans
The project plans to upgrade about 400 upper primary and secondary schools to senior secondary level, with 196 in the first phase. Construction of 1,733 model Anganwadi Centers, establishment of a State Resource Centre, teacher and Anganwadi worker training, integration of nutrition with foundational learning, career counseling, reformed student assessments, and technology-enabled governance are key elements. Samagra Shiksha Assam, the Department of Women and Child Development, and the Public Works Department will implement the project, guided by a dedicated project management unit.
Commitment to Timely Launch
During the review meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Dr Ravi Kota and attended by World Bank Education Specialist Meghna Sharma, officials reaffirmed their commitment to fast-track preparations. All stakeholders agreed to ensure timely groundwork so that the project can start as planned in early 2026. The initiative promises to transform Assam’s education landscape, improve student learning outcomes, and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for early childhood and adolescent development.
