Kerala to develop state-owned AI engine for schools
What's the story
The Kerala government has announced plans to develop a state-owned artificial intelligence (AI) engine for its schools.
The move comes after the state successfully trained thousands of teachers in AI last year, a first in India.
The new project will be spearheaded by the Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE) under the existing academic framework, State General Education Minister V Sivankutty said.
Tech integration
KITE completes distribution of 29,000 robotic kits in schools
Sivankutty also noted that KITE has already distributed 29,000 robotic kits to schools across the state.
The kits come with components such as 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.
The effort is part of a larger initiative to integrate technology into education and promote innovation among students.
CSR appeal
Minister urges companies to support robotic education
The minister also lauded companies such as Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL), Qburst Technologies, and Canara Bank for their role in making robotic education accessible to all school children in Kerala.
These firms have contributed from their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds.
Sivankutty urged more companies to take a cue from this, stressing on the need for collective efforts, not just isolated success stories.
Curriculum update
ICT textbooks address digital device misuse, fake news
Sivankutty emphasized that the school curriculum has been revised to tackle modern-day problems.
The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) textbooks now cover issues like the problems caused by children overusing digital devices and how to combat fake news.
This update is a part of Kerala's larger move to prepare students with relevant skills for the digital age.