Hyderabad: A unique initiative by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Open University aims to offer free higher education to tribal children starting this academic year. Vice Chancellor Prof. Ghanta Chakrapani announced this groundbreaking plan.
For four decades, the university has worked to bring educational opportunities to many who lacked access. However, a recent study found that some communities, especially tribal groups, still lag in education.
The university discovered that tribal communities, particularly in Telangana, remain underrepresented in higher education. To address this, the university is launching a special program to provide them with educational opportunities.
At Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Open University, most students belong to SC, ST, BC, and minority groups, with about half being women. Despite these efforts, tribal communities still face challenges in accessing higher education. The university’s motto, “Education at your doorstep,” reflects its commitment to reaching these groups.
Even with study centers in remote areas, the university found they weren’t effectively reaching tribal students. The university’s degree courses are among the most affordable in the country, costing only Rs. 3200 annually. However, this is still a financial burden for many tribal families.
The “Tribal Free Education Plan” aims to eliminate fees for tribal students. The program will offer free education, textbooks, and other resources to tribes like Gond, Koya, and Chenchu. Students will pay a nominal admission fee of just Rs. 500.
Prof. Ghanta Chakrapani aims to graduate at least 1,000 tribal children in the next five years by providing necessary resources and support. The program began this academic year, 2025-26, with the last date to apply being August 13.
For more information, contact the university’s help desk at 040-23680333 / 040-23680555, call center at 1800 5990 101, or visit their website: www.braou.ac.in | www.online.braou.ac.in.
