In a major step towards future-ready learning, the Ministry of Education (MoE) has announced that Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computational Thinking (CT) will be included in India’s school curriculum from Class 3 onwards, starting the 2026–27 academic year.
The reform aims to prepare students with critical thinking, ethical understanding, and digital-age skills from an early stage.
Key Highlights of the Education Reform
- AI & CT to start from Class 3: The new subjects will be part of the national school curriculum beginning in 2026–27.
- AI as a foundational skill: AI will be treated as a basic universal competency for all students.
- Aligned with NEP 2020: The reform follows the National Education Policy 2020 and National Curriculum Framework 2023.
- Expert committee formed: CBSE has set up a committee led by Prof. Karthik Raman (IIT Madras) to design the curriculum.
- Teacher training focus: Educators will be trained under the NISHTHA program with NCERT’s support.
- Ethical learning emphasis: The curriculum will promote responsible, inclusive, and value-based AI education.
- Implementation by 2026–27: All supporting resources and training materials will be ready by December 2025.
AI and Computational Thinking to Be Core Learning Skills
The initiative aims to introduce children to AI concepts through everyday examples, helping them understand how technology influences their surroundings.
- Students will develop problem-solving, reasoning, and creative thinking skills.
- Lessons will be linked to the theme “The World Around Us.”
- The approach focuses on hands-on learning rather than theoretical instruction.
“We want AI education to build responsible and informed learners who can apply technology for good,” said Sanjay Kumar, Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL).
Curriculum Framework and Design
- The AI curriculum is being developed in collaboration with CBSE, NCERT, KVS, and NVS.
- The syllabus will follow age-appropriate learning levels, gradually introducing computational and ethical concepts.
- Resource materials, activity books, and digital content will be available before the rollout.
- A joint NCERT–CBSE coordination committee will monitor quality and integration across schools.
Teacher Training and Capacity Building
Recognising teachers as the foundation of successful reform, the Ministry is prioritising training through:
- NISHTHA (National Initiative for School Heads and Teachers Holistic Advancement) program.
- NCERT-developed handbooks and video-based learning modules.
- Continuous professional development to help teachers adapt to new teaching models.
‘AI for Public Good’ and Ethical Learning
The Ministry has emphasised that AI education must go beyond coding or technology.
- Students will learn about ethical AI use, social responsibility, and data privacy awareness.
- The goal is to help learners understand how AI impacts communities and how innovation can be used for public good.
- Inclusivity and equal access will remain key priorities throughout the reform.
India’s Education System Enters a New Era
The introduction of AI from Class 3 is seen as a transformative shift in India’s school education.
- It prepares children for the demands of a digital and innovation-driven economy.
- Encourages creative, ethical, and analytical thinking from a young age.
- Marks India’s commitment to developing a tech-savvy and socially conscious generation.
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