AI, Robotics Education to be ensured for all Class X students: Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education

 In a pioneering step towards future-ready education, the Government of Kerala, through its state-run agency Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE), has rolled out a comprehensive plan to make Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics education accessible to all Class X students across the state. This move not only marks a significant milestone in Indian education but also sets a benchmark for integrating cutting-edge technology into the mainstream school curriculum.

With over 4.3 lakh students in Class X poised to benefit, Kerala becomes the first state in India to introduce mandatory robotics education at the secondary school level. The program, part of a broader digital learning transformation led by KITE, aims to empower students with practical knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in an increasingly AI-driven world.

Curriculum Transformation: A Practical Approach to Learning

At the core of this initiative is a hands-on approach to robotics and AI education. The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) textbook for Class X now includes a new chapter titled “The World of Robots” (Chapter 6). This module introduces students to the fundamentals of robotics through interactive, activity-based learning. Students will learn to build basic robotic systems using open-source platforms such as Arduino and programming environments like Pictoblox.

Some of the real-world applications that students will work on include:

• Automatic sanitizer dispensers

• Smart doors and lighting systems

• Obstacle-avoiding cars

• Weather monitoring devices

These projects enable students to learn how to integrate sensors, actuators, and microcontrollers into physical computing systems, giving them both theoretical insight and practical exposure.

Robotics Kits Distributed to Schools

To support this initiative, KITE has distributed more than 29,000 robotic kits to government and aided schools throughout the state. Each kit contains:

• Arduino Uno boards

• Servo motors

• Ultrasonic sensors

• LED components

• Jumper wires

• Power modules and battery holders

This open-hardware approach ensures affordability and flexibility, making it easier for students to tinker, explore, and innovate. KITE has also confirmed that additional kits will be provided to unaided schools to ensure equity and inclusivity in learning.

AI Education Beyond Class X

This initiative builds on KITE's earlier efforts to introduce AI education from Class 7 onwards. Last year, AI modules were integrated into the curriculum for Class 7 students. Now, the program has been expanded to include AI concepts in the ICT textbooks of Classes 8, 9, and 10, ensuring continuity and depth in learning.

The AI curriculum focuses on:

• Introduction to machine learning

• Image and speech recognition

• Ethical AI and data privacy

• Using AI tools for creative tasks

By incorporating these modules early on, Kerala hopes to prepare a generation of students who are not only digitally literate but also capable of understanding and shaping AI technologies responsibly.

Teacher Training and Support Infrastructure

Recognizing that any curriculum reform must be backed by teacher capacity, KITE has taken significant steps to train educators. So far, 9,924 teachers have been trained to handle the new AI and robotics content. These training sessions cover:

• Programming basics

• Circuit design and assembly

• Troubleshooting hardware/software

• Pedagogical methods for experiential learning

In July, a second round of intensive robotics-specific training will be held to deepen teachers’ technical expertise.

Additionally, a workshop involving 390 students from 196 Little KITES units—the IT clubs formed in schools—was held at the district level. These student leaders will act as peer facilitators, driving engagement and enthusiasm among their classmates.

Inclusive and Accessible Learning for All

The initiative also underscores Kerala’s commitment to inclusive education. KITE is ensuring that students with disabilities have equal access to digital learning tools and content. Special accessibility features, such as screen readers and tactile interfaces, are being integrated to bridge learning gaps.  

Moreover, KITE continues to run KITE VICTERS, the state’s educational television channel, which broadcasts lessons and support materials in regional languages to help students in remote and under-resourced areas.

A Model for the Nation

Kerala’s AI and robotics education initiative is not just a curriculum update—it’s a vision for transforming education to meet the needs of the 21st century. It reflects a forward-thinking mindset that recognizes the importance of:

• Preparing students for a tech-driven future

• Creating equal opportunities for digital learning

• Promoting innovation, creativity, and critical thinking

As the rest of the country observes this bold experiment, Kerala’s model may serve as a blueprint for nationwide reforms in STEM and digital education.

Conclusion

By embedding AI and robotics into the school curriculum at the secondary level, Kerala has taken a definitive leap toward democratizing access to emerging technologies. Through well-planned infrastructure, hands-on learning, and dedicated teacher training, the state is laying the foundation for a digitally empowered generation. This initiative stands as a testament to Kerala’s educational foresight and may inspire similar reforms across India in the years to come.