After successfully training school teachers in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and incorporating AI fundamentals into Information and Communications Technology (ICT) textbooks, the Kerala government is now taking a major step forward by developing a state-owned AI engine for schools.
State General Education Minister V Sivankutty announced the initiative on Saturday, stating that the AI engine would be developed within the academic framework under the leadership of Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE). The announcement was made during the inauguration of the State Camp of Little KITEs at the International Centre for Free and Open Source Software (ICFOSS) campus.
Robotic Kits for Schools
Sivankutty also confirmed the completion of the distribution of 29,000 robotic kits to schools, a project undertaken by KITE. These kits, based on open hardware, include Arduino Uno Rev3, LEDs, SG90 Mini Servo Motor, LDR Light Sensor Module, IR Sensor Module, Active Buzzer Module, Push Button, Bread Board, Jumper wires, and Resistors.
Highlighting the importance of corporate contributions in advancing digital education, the minister called on more companies to follow the example of Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL), Qburst Technologies, and Canara Bank, which have supported robotic education through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
Addressing Digital Challenges
The minister also emphasized the need to tackle issues arising from excessive use of digital devices among children and the spread of fake news. These concerns have been incorporated into the revised ICT syllabus to ensure that students are equipped with the skills to navigate the digital world responsibly.
Expert-Led Sessions
The two-day event features interactive sessions by AI and robotics experts, including Prahlad Vadakkepat from the University of Singapore and Achuthsankar S Nair from the Department of Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, University of Kerala.
Last year, Kerala became the first state in India to provide hands-on AI training to thousands of teachers in state-run schools. This initiative aimed to equip educators with the necessary AI expertise to integrate advanced technology into classroom learning effectively.
With this new AI engine initiative, Kerala continues to lead in integrating AI and robotics into its education system, setting a benchmark for other states in the country.
Sources By Agencies
