From the upcoming academic session, Central Board of School Education (CBSE) will include yoga, artificial intelligence (AI) and early childhood care education (ECCE) as skill subjects in the school curriculum.

“The CBSE is introducing artificial intelligence as an optional sixth subject in Class IX from the 2019-2020 session onwards. To enhance the multidisciplinary approach in teaching learning and also to sensitise the new generation, it was decided that schools may start AI ‘inspire module’ of 12 hours in Class VIII itself,” said a CBSE circular. The decision to provide instruction on the three subjects was taken at a recent board meeting.

ECCE and Yoga will be introduced as elective subjects at senior secondary level. As per current CBSE regulations, schools may offers a skill subject as an additional sixth subject along with the existing five compulsory subjects.

“Beside these new programmes, Board is already offering various Skill subjects at Secondary and Senior Secondary level to upgrade the skills and proficiency of the young generation...More than 6.5 lakh students have presently opted for these subjects at Secondary and Senior Secondary level in 6543 schools,” added the circular.

Why AI?

Commenting on the reasons for introducing AI in secondary school curriculum, the education body stated that AI was being widely recognized to be the power that will fuel the future global digital economy. “AI in the past few years has gained geo-strategic importance and a large number of countries are striving hard to stay ahead with their policy initiatives to get their country ready. India’s own AI Strategy identifies AI as an opportunity & solution provider for inclusive economic growth and social development.”

Also Read: ‘Shiksha Vani’: Education Podcast App For CBSE Students; To Include Vital Study Tools And Exam Information

Yoga in CBSE Schools

Get Swarajya in your inbox.