Kozhikode:
An improved version of the Aakash tablet is on the anvil after the successful launch of three versions, Human Resource Development (HRD) minister MM Pallam Raju said today.
"It is a fantastic initiative by the ministry to develop Aakash Tablet, a mobile device that can be utilised by students anywhere. It was successfully tried out. The second and third versions have come out and the fourth version is on the anvil," he said.
Speaking to mediapersons on the sidelines of a function at the Kozhikode District Congress Committee, he said the performance of the tablets had improved with every successful version and the ministry is continuing efforts in this regard.
"Where it has been a failure was, we could not productionise the numbers that we wanted for whatever reason.
"Definitely we will look in to it," he said.
Referring to the education sector, Mr Raju said the Centre is formulating several projects for its improvement, chief among which was to start new higher educational institutions by including it in the 12th Plan and improve facilities in the existing institutions.
Pointing out that statistics showed about 23 crore children get preliminary education and 11 crore children high school education, he said the Centre's aim was to create a good atmosphere by raising educational standards in schools, colleges and in the higher education sector.
Alongside, standards in polytechnics and employment-oriented Information Technology schools would also be improved, he said, adding the new generation has to be attracted to such institutions.
The ministry also planned to start more schools, higher educational institutions and research centres, he said.
One Kendriya Vidyalaya will be sanctioned to Kerala by including it in the 12th Plan, he said.
In the event of favourable circumstances and if facilities are made available, priority would be given to start an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Kerala, Mr Raju added.