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The Punjab government has set a new benchmark in school education by introducing Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a mainstream subject. The state has claimed to become the first in India to introduce AI as a core subject for students from Classes 1 to 12. The initiative, titled 'Sarbat.AI', will be implemented in phases by the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB). The objective is to equip students with future-ready skills, promote innovation and nurture responsible digital citizens.
The ambitious initiative was launched by Punjab School Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains in the presence of former Delhi Education Minister Manish Sisodia, education experts, technology partners and senior officials from the School Education Department. According to the government, this will be one of India's largest state-wide AI education missions, benefiting nearly 25,172 schools and 3.15 million students across Punjab.
AI Curriculum to Be Introduced in Phases
According to the government, AI education will be implemented in two phases. In Phase I, AI will be integrated into the Computer Science curriculum for Classes 8 to 12 in government schools and PSEB-affiliated private schools.
In Phase II, AI education will be extended to Classes 1 to 7 through age-appropriate content, ensuring that children begin developing digital literacy and AI-related skills from an early stage.
Curriculum Based on UNESCO Standards
The Punjab government stated that the AI curriculum has been designed after studying international best practices from Singapore, Finland, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the United States. It has also been aligned with UNESCO's Ethical AI Framework, ensuring that students learn the safe, responsible and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence while meeting global standards.
Focus on Online Learning, Projects and Practical AI Education
Under the new AI education programme, students will learn through live online classes, recorded lectures, project-based learning, continuous assessments and a dedicated Learning Management System (LMS). The approach aims to provide students with practical exposure alongside theoretical knowledge.
Decision Follows Success of AI Pilot Programme
The initiative builds on the success of the AI Pilot Programme conducted by PSEB in collaboration with FA-AI. During the programme, a state-level AI Hackathon showcased innovative projects developed by students, highlighting their creativity and technological capabilities.
Google, Intel, Canva Among Technology Partners
The project's technological implementation will be led by Neeev AI, while leading technology companies such as Google, Intel, Canva and FA-AI will support AI literacy, teacher capacity building, innovation and workforce readiness.
More Than 200,000 Teachers to Receive AI Training
According to the government, 12,424 Computer Science teachers will lead the programme during the first phase. Subsequently, more than 200,000 teachers across various subjects will be trained to integrate AI into classroom teaching, assessment and learning, enabling AI to be incorporated across the curriculum.
Preparing Students for Future Careers
School Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said Punjab is moving beyond leading the Green Revolution to becoming a leader in the AI Revolution. He emphasized that the initiative is not only aimed at preparing students for future jobs but also at empowering them to become innovators, problem-solvers, entrepreneurs and responsible citizens in a technology-driven world.
Punjab Aims to Become a National Model for AI Education
Former Delhi Education Minister Manish Sisodia described the initiative as a historic milestone, saying Punjab has established a national benchmark in AI education. According to him, the programme will not only teach students how to use AI but will also prepare them to innovate with AI and lead the technology-driven future. He also stressed the need for technology-enabled reforms and greater transparency in the country's examination system.
