In a significant step to enhance educational infrastructure in rural Karnataka, the Kalyana Karnataka Region Development Board (KKRDB) has announced the construction of 350 new Karnataka Public Schools (KPS) across the region during the 2025–26 and 2026–27 academic years.
According to KKRDB Chairman Ajay Singh, the project aims to provide world-class education facilities in underserved districts of Kalyana Karnataka, bridging gaps in access to quality schooling.
Funding for Karnataka Public Schools Expansion
Out of the 350 schools planned:
- 150 schools will be funded by the Government of Karnataka.
- 200 schools will be funded directly by the KKRDB.
The initiative follows the cabinet decision of September 4, 2024, where 500 Karnataka Public Schools were allocated under the Asian Development Fund (ADF) grant. Singh confirmed that the construction work has received full approval, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the Education Minister pledging their support.
Currently, only 60 Karnataka Public Schools operate in the Kalyana Karnataka region, compared to 300 across the state. The addition of 350 new schools is expected to revolutionize education in the region.
Modern Facilities Better than Private Schools
Explaining the project details, Singh stated:
- Each KPS will be built on 3 to 5 acres of land.
- The estimated cost per school is Rs 3–5 crore.
- Schools will offer education from LKG to PUC (Pre-University Course).
- Each school will serve students from two village panchayats.
- Dedicated bus services will ensure accessibility.
Singh emphasized that the new schools will feature infrastructure and facilities superior to private institutions, ensuring holistic development for students in the region.
Akshara Avishkara Programme Extended
The chairman also announced that the Akshara Avishkara programme has been extended for another three years. Under this initiative:
- 25% of allocated grants will be directed towards educational improvement.
- The KKRDB will spend Rs 7.5 crore to provide free books to students of Classes 8 to 10, with the goal of improving SSLC exam performance.
- Additional educational schemes will be designed based on student performance data.
Kalyana Karnataka Utsav 2025
The announcement comes ahead of the Kalyana Karnataka Utsav, scheduled for September 16–17, 2025. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will visit Kalaburagi on September 16 and participate in the celebrations.
On September 17, he will garland the statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at SVP Circle and hoist the national flag at the Police Parade Ground at 9 AM, followed by a public address. The festivities will also feature a walkathon and an educational exhibition at PDA College.
KKRDB Investments in Education
Ajay Singh highlighted that the state government has allocated Rs 13,000 crore to the KKRDB over the past three financial years. Out of the Rs 8,000 crore sanctioned under the latest action plan, nearly Rs 6,224 crore has already been spent in the last 27 months, with education receiving top priority.
The construction of 350 new Karnataka Public Schools in Kalyana Karnataka marks a historic investment in the future of rural education. With strong government funding, modern infrastructure, and supportive programmes like Akshara Avishkara, the initiative promises to empower tribal and rural communities by delivering quality education comparable to urban and private schools.
