The Andhra Pradesh Waqf Board has announced a major educational initiative under which it will provide free Intermediate education to 500 students across the State from the next academic year. The programme, which will be implemented at an estimated cost of ₹15 crore, aims to improve educational opportunities for underprivileged students in the minority community. Waqf Board Chairman Abdul Aziz made the announcement during a press conference in Nellore on Wednesday, after inspecting Waqf land belonging to Jamia Masjid in Parameswari Nagar.

I am writing about this because it’s a rare example of a government-linked religious institution using its resources for a public cause that directly impacts youth and education. In a time when financial barriers often stop students from continuing their studies after Class 10, this move shows how community-led initiatives can step in to fill gaps in access to quality education. The programme’s focus on Intermediate students is especially important because it supports children at a critical academic stage that often determines their higher education and career paths. It’s also a reminder that religious and welfare boards can play a key role in promoting inclusive development.

Free Intermediate education for 500 students

According to the announcement, the Andhra Pradesh Waqf Board will fully sponsor the Intermediate education of 500 students, covering tuition, books, and related academic expenses. The initiative will start from the 2025–26 academic year and will be implemented in selected institutions across the State.

Chairman Abdul Aziz said that this move is part of the Board’s larger vision to promote education among economically weaker sections and ensure that financial challenges do not prevent capable students from continuing their studies. “Education is the foundation of empowerment. If we invest in our children’s education today, they will become responsible citizens tomorrow,” he said during the press briefing.

The Board has also set aside ₹15 crore for the project, which will be funded from Waqf revenue and development activities. Detailed guidelines on student selection, eligibility criteria, and application procedures will be announced in the coming months.

Inspection of Waqf land in Nellore

Abdul Aziz’s announcement came after his inspection of 13.30 acres of Waqf land belonging to Jamia Masjid, Parameswari Nagar, Nellore. Accompanied by Telugu Desam Party (TDP) minority leaders and religious heads, he verified land documents and discussed the development and protection of Waqf properties.

The inspection was carried out following a survey conducted with government assistance, which confirmed that about 13 acres of the land remain intact, though some portions have reportedly faced encroachment. “There has been some minor encroachment, which will be dealt with legally. It is the responsibility of every citizen to protect Waqf lands,” Abdul Aziz stated.

He added that the Board would soon coordinate with the District Collector, local representatives, and religious leaders to plan the best use of the land. The immediate focus will be on clearing the overgrown areas and constructing a boundary wall to prevent further encroachments.

Reviving Waqf properties for public good

The Waqf Board’s decision to reinvest in education comes at a time when several Waqf properties across India have been underutilised or illegally occupied. By reclaiming and using its assets for community welfare, the A.P. Waqf Board aims to set an example of transparent and productive management.

Officials said that the revenue generated from Waqf lands and properties should ideally be used for education, healthcare, and social welfare of the community. The Board’s new initiative reflects this original purpose.

The planned development of Waqf land in Nellore could also open up new opportunities for community institutions such as hostels, libraries, or training centres. Discussions are already underway on how to repurpose underutilised land to fund more educational initiatives in the future.

Importance of educational access for minorities

According to government data, educational participation among minority groups in India remains lower than the national average, particularly at the Intermediate and higher education levels. A report by the Ministry of Minority Affairs showed that dropout rates increase sharply after Class 10 due to financial hardship and lack of awareness.

By sponsoring free Intermediate education, the A.P. Waqf Board hopes to bridge this gap. Programmes like this can help more students, especially from low-income families, continue their studies without interruption. The initiative is also aligned with the broader goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which calls for expanding access and inclusion in secondary and higher education.

Focus on accountability and transparency

Chairman Abdul Aziz also emphasised that the Board would maintain strict transparency and monitoring of funds allocated for the free education scheme. An internal audit system will ensure that every rupee spent contributes directly to student welfare.

He stated that educational institutions partnering with the Board must maintain clear records of enrolled students and academic performance. The goal is not only to support students financially but also to ensure measurable educational outcomes.

In addition to this scheme, the A.P. Waqf Board is reportedly planning other welfare programmes, including scholarships, skill training workshops, and youth employment drives, to enhance opportunities for the State’s minority population.

Broader message of the initiative

Beyond its immediate financial support, the Waqf Board’s announcement sends a strong message about the power of community-led development. It shows that religious and charitable institutions can go beyond traditional roles to drive social progress — especially in areas like education, where government initiatives alone cannot reach every student.

By aligning its efforts with the State’s education goals, the Board has taken a step toward making Waqf resources more meaningful and people-oriented. The proposed ₹15-crore investment is not just a budget figure — it represents hundreds of young dreams given a real chance to succeed.