TLDR: Punjab has become the first state in India to launch a comprehensive Artificial Intelligence (AI) curriculum for students in classes 6 to 12 across its government schools. This initiative, spearheaded by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, aims to equip one lakh students with essential AI skills, including ethics, coding, robotics, data literacy, and Sustainable Development Goals. The program includes blended training for 10,000 teachers and leverages the state’s robust digital infrastructure in schools.
Chandigarh, Punjab – In a landmark move towards digital empowerment and future-ready education, Punjab has officially become the first state in India to roll out a comprehensive Artificial Intelligence (AI) curriculum in its government schools. The initiative, launched under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, targets students from classes 6 to 12, aiming to prepare them for a rapidly evolving digital world and foster a generation of innovators and job creators.
The new curriculum, developed by the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) with expert input, is designed to be holistic and practical. It encompasses critical areas such as AI ethics, coding, robotics, data literacy, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Unlike traditional textbook-centric learning, the program emphasizes practical, project-based activities, supported by a range of resources including books, workbooks, and interactive digital tools. All educational materials will be available in both English and Punjabi to ensure accessibility across the state.
A cornerstone of this ambitious project is the extensive teacher training program. The Punjab government is conducting a blended training initiative for 10,000 teachers, combining online modules with in-person workshops. This training covers both basic and advanced levels of AI education, with a strong focus on modern pedagogical methods like project-based and inquiry-led learning. Upon successful completion, teachers will receive formal certification and ongoing support through refresher courses and online forums, ensuring they remain updated with the latest advancements in AI.
The state’s strong digital infrastructure provides a solid foundation for this educational transformation. According to Education Plus (UDISE+) 2024-25 data, Punjab boasts one of the highest rates of computer penetration in government schools nationwide, with 18,391 out of 19,243 schools (95.6%) equipped with functioning computers or PCs. Furthermore, 17,150 schools (89.1%) feature smart classrooms with digital boards, virtual classrooms, and smart TVs. While laptop availability stands at 9.8%, it still surpasses neighboring states like Haryana (2.1%) and Himachal Pradesh (1.9%). This robust digital backbone is expected to facilitate the seamless adoption of AI education.
The initiative is set for a gradual rollout over the next three years in selected schools, where students will engage in hands-on, project-oriented learning. To support this, students will be provided with necessary software, digital platforms, and Learning Management Systems (LMS). Beyond the classroom, co-curricular activities such as AI hackathons, coding competitions, and science fairs are planned to stimulate innovation and creativity among students.
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Chief Minister Mann articulated the government’s vision, stating that AI education aims to enhance students’ critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, ultimately transforming them into individuals who can create employment opportunities rather than merely seeking them. This strategic integration of AI into the school curriculum is seen as a pivotal step in empowering Punjab’s youth and propelling the state onto the global stage of technological advancement.
