Schools to teach AI to kids from class 3

In a landmark move, the Ministry of Education is set to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the school curriculum for students from Class 3 onwards, starting from the 2026-27 academic session. Officials stated that a comprehensive framework is being developed to integrate AI education across all grades, ensuring both students and teachers are well-prepared for the digital economy.

School Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar emphasized the urgency of the initiative, stating, “We need to move fast so that students and teachers are properly aligned with this technology over the next two to three years. The challenge will be to reach out to over one crore teachers across the country and orient them in imparting AI-related education.”

Currently, over 18,000 CBSE schools offer AI as a skill subject from Class 6 onwards through a 15-hour module, with Classes 9-12 having it as an optional subject. A pilot project is already underway to train teachers in using AI tools for lesson planning, aiming to equip educators alongside learners for future demands.

The announcement coincided with the release of a NITI Aayog report on AI and jobs, which projected that while around two million traditional jobs may be displaced, eight million new roles could emerge if a robust AI ecosystem is built. The report stressed the importance of collaboration between the India AI Talent Mission, the ongoing India AI Mission, and partnerships among academia, government, and industry to foster innovation, research, and a skilled workforce.

With decisive action, the report concludes, India can not only safeguard its workforce but also position itself as a global leader in shaping the future of AI.