IIT-Guwahati has initiated a program to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Assam’s school curriculum. The institute recently completed training for the first batch of school teachers and developed textbooks for the new AI subject. This initiative supports the formal introduction of AI in Class 11 across Assam government schools.
First Teacher Batch Trained
The first training program for teachers concluded this year. A total of 126 teachers from various districts in Assam participated. The training took place at the Mehta Family School of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (MFSDS&AI) at IIT-Guwahati. Prof. Devendra Jalihal, Director of IIT-Guwahati, confirmed the completion of this inaugural batch.
AI is currently offered as an elective subject in Class 11. Its introduction is phased, ensuring a structured rollout across the state.
New Textbooks Developed
Alongside teacher training, IIT-Guwahati faculty members have co-authored textbooks for the state curriculum. Prof. Shymanta M Hazarika from the Mechanical Engineering Department and Assistant Prof. Debanga Raj Neog from MFSDS&AI, both from IIT-Guwahati, contributed to the textbooks. Sadiq Hussain from Dibrugarh University also co-authored the materials.
The Class 11 textbook has been released . The Class 12 textbook is scheduled for release soon. Initial textbooks are in English, with plans for translation into local languages, including Bodo.
AI Education Expands Regionally
The institute’s AI and Data Science training efforts extend beyond Assam. Faculty members from several Bhutanese colleges received training in Data Science and AI two years ago. Another group from Bhutan is expected next year.
IIT-Guwahati plans to expand the teacher training program to other northeastern states. Discussions have already taken place with the Tripura education minister to facilitate this expansion.
Online AI Degree Attracts Students
The MFSDS&AI at IIT-Guwahati also offers an online Bachelor of Science (BSc) program in Data Science and AI. This four-year undergraduate program launched in 2023. It includes flexible exit options after the second year.
Enrollment in the online BSc program has shown rapid growth. The first batch had 700 students . The second batch enrolled 1,000 students , and the third batch saw 1,400 students join. Based on current trends, enrollment is projected to reach 5,000 students within the next five years.
Fee Waivers for Regional Students
Initially, few students from the Northeast enrolled in the online program. To address this, IIT-Guwahati approached Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu with a proposal. The institute offered to mentor 500 students to help them meet eligibility criteria.
Approximately 250 students from 28 districts of Assam attended a month-long guidance program at the institute. Following this mentorship, 80 students qualified for the online course through an entrance test. Ultimately, 72 students received admission offers . IIT-Guwahati is supporting these students with full fee waivers. This initiative aims to promote Data Science and AI education, aligning with the expanding use of these technologies in daily life, according to Prof. Jalihal.