CBSE rolls out new NCERT-approved curriculum: AI learning from Class-3
What's the story
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has launched a new curriculum on Computational Thinking (CT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students of Classes 3 to 8. The initiative was announced by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. It aims to prepare students for the future by introducing them to AI concepts early in their education.
Early education
Integrating CT into existing subjects for younger students
The curriculum recommends 50 hours of CT learning for Classes 3 to 5, integrated into subjects like environmental studies and mathematics. Students will learn skills such as logical thinking and pattern recognition through puzzles and games. Each class will have a resource book aligned with textbooks to help teachers incorporate CT into lessons seamlessly.
Higher education
For older students, focus on AI and project-based learning
For Classes 6 to 8, the curriculum expands to include advanced CT skills, introductory AI concepts, and interdisciplinary projects. Of the total 100 hours annually, 40 hours are allocated to advanced CT, 20 hours to AI fundamentals, and the remaining 40 hours to project-based learning. Students will apply CT to complex problems, gain exposure to AI tools, and understand real-world applications of AI.
Development process
Developed by IIT Madras experts after extensive consultations
The curriculum was developed by a 10-member expert committee led by Dr. Karthik Raman of IIT Madras. The panel consulted NCERT officials, technology experts, principals, and computer teachers of CBSE-affiliated schools during its development. It will be implemented in over 32,900 CBSE-affiliated schools from the 2026-27 academic session. Pradhan called the curriculum a transformative step toward future-ready learning. He said it would empower students to engage with and shape the digital future.