CBSE schools have introduced artificial intelligence as a subject in class IX: HRD Minister

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been introduced as a subject in classes VIII, IX and X from the session 2019 to 2020 in CBSE schools, said the Union Minister for Human Resource Development (HRD), Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha on 5 December 2019.

The initiative has been undertaken in schools affiliated with Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) in order to enhance the multidisciplinary approach in teaching-learning and to sensitize the new generation, according to a PIB release.

While AI has been introduced as a subject for class IX students, a twelve hours ‘Inspire’ module on artificial intelligence has also been announced, which schools can take up with the students of class VIII. The study material for teaching artificial intelligence in classes VIII and IX has already been provided to schools through the official CBSE website.

CBSE has collaborated with several organizations such as Intel, IBM, Microsoft, Private Schools, and so on. As part of the collaboration formed with Microsoft, 1000 teachers nominated by CBSE underwent a 3-day project-based training for practical, hands-on knowledge of Microsoft 365 tools such as OneNote, Flipgrid, Teams, Outlook and Minecraft, and Paint3D Microsoft.

They were also trained on digital storytelling; creation of personalized learning experiences for diverse learners; the use of Teams for virtual lessons and how to leverage artificial intelligence tools to create BOTS and demystify concepts around artificial intelligence.

So far, 41 training programmes on artificial intelligence have also been conducted in schools affiliated with CBSE across various places in the country in which 1690 participants (principals and teachers) have been trained.

Nevertheless, the decision to introduce Artificial Intelligence in the States and UTs will have to be taken by the respective Boards. Having knowledge in artificial intelligence has become almost imperative in current times as the technology has become all-pervasive, and has also transformed organizations across sectors.