PANAJI
With the Goa government planning to make Artificial Intelligence (AI) a compulsory subject from Class VI onwards by the 2027-28 academic year, the Goa State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) is working closely with the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to develop a graded syllabus for its introduction into the school curriculum.
The initiative is part of the State government’s newly introduced AI Policy 2026, which envisages making AI compulsory for students from Classes VI to XII from the 2027-28 academic year. The policy also proposes setting up AI laboratories in 50 government schools and integrating AI into higher education.
Syllabus development
Speaking to The Goan, SCERT chairperson Meghana Shetgaonkar said the syllabus was at a preliminary stage and required extensive research and study before it could be introduced in schools.
“Everything is in the initial stage. These are graded syllabi and they cannot be introduced overnight. There is a lot of research and study that has to be done before introducing them,” she said.
Shetgaonkar said the mode of implementation, whether through a phased introduction or a pilot launch, would be decided only after the module was finalised.
She added that teachers were already being trained in AI tools and related areas as part of efforts to prepare the education system for the proposed transition.
NCERT module
Meanwhile, NCERT, in consultation with IIT Madras and IIT Jodhpur, has introduced a 20-hour introductory module on Computational Thinking (CT) and Artificial Intelligence for students of Classes IX to XII, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP).
Designed for students with no prior knowledge of AI, the module aims to develop critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills while familiarising students with how AI works, its applications, potential and limitations.
Practical learning
The module follows an experiential, activity-based learning approach involving discussions, practical exercises, experimentation and reflection. The activities can be conducted with or without digital devices, allowing schools with varying levels of technological infrastructure to implement them.
Responsible use
An important component of the module is the responsible use of AI, with lessons covering data privacy, misinformation, fairness, digital safety and the critical evaluation of AI-generated information.
It also emphasises the importance of human judgement, creativity and ethical responsibility when using emerging technologies.
