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Punjab has become the first Indian State to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a mainstream subject for Classes I to XII under the Sarbat.AI initiative.

About the Sarbat.AI Initiative

• Sarbat.AI is a statewide programme that integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the school curriculum to equip students with future-ready digital skills and promote AI literacy from the primary level.
• The initiative aims to build an AI-literate, innovation-driven, and ethically responsible student community while ensuring equitable access to AI education across the State.

Key Features

• The programme will be implemented in a phased manner. The first phase covers Classes VIII to XII through the Computer Science curriculum, followed by Classes I to VII with age-appropriate AI education.
• The curriculum is based on global best practices from countries such as Singapore, Finland, the UAE, and the United States, and aligns with UNESCO's Ethical AI Framework.
• Teaching will combine live online classes, recorded lectures, project-based learning, continuous assessments, and a dedicated Learning Management System (LMS).
• The initiative is expected to benefit 25,172 schools and around 31.5 lakh students. Initially, 12,424 Computer Science teachers will be trained, with the long-term objective of upskilling over two lakh teachers.

Significance

The initiative aims to prepare students for the digital economy by developing skills in Artificial Intelligence, innovation, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies.

It also positions Punjab as a pioneer in AI-enabled school education, promoting inclusive access to advanced technology in both urban and rural schools.