In what can be termed as a major move to bring school education in tune with the changing demands of know-how, NCERT has formed a team of experts to prepare textbooks on Artificial Intelligence in Classes 11 & 12. This paves the way to shift the focus from considering Artificial Intelligence as an auxiliary skill to positioning it as a formal domain of learning at the senior secondary level.
An announcement made in Parliament by the Ministry of Education that AI is being introduced in classroom teaching through standard textbooks developed by the prestigious NCERT is well-timed in view of the way in which AI is rapidly impacting economies and life in general. Through this move, the government wants all school-goers nationwide to be equally exposed to this need-of-the-times phenomenon called AI.
A shift from optional exposure to formal curriculum
Until now, AI-related learning offered in schools is basically extra and optional. There have been attempts to include AI as an elective subject or incorporate it into computer science-related activities like coding clubs or projects offered in some CBSE-affiliated schools. However, until now, there is a lack of a unified national curriculum for AI-related learning.
With the involvement of NCERT to write textbooks, education in AI is about to become more structured. So, this is also likely to bring a significant end to haphazard exposure and sensory experiences and mark a crucial transition from them to a structured way of learning about AI through senior secondary schooling.
Alignment with national education reforms
The development of AI textbooks dovetails squarely into the larger vision of the National Education Policy 2020, emphasizing digital literacy, multidisciplinary learning, and skilling for the future. NEP 2020 advocates for integrating technology into education in a manner that rises beyond mere rote learning to encourage analytical thinking and real-world application.
As per National Curriculum Framework on School Education, NCERT’s initiative is also a move towards modernization of content without losing accessibility. Contrary to focusing on sophisticated coding or mathematics concepts only, AI education will likely stress on conceptual understanding and practical applications of concepts in day-to-day life.
What students are likely to learn
Though the books are still being developed, government reports indicate that the training curriculum for Classes 11 and 12 will not emphasize expertise, rather focus on basic understanding.
The students are expected to understand the fundamental ideas of artificial intelligence such as how machines process information, look for patterns, and make decisions. The areas of machine learning, simple algorithms, and decision-support systems would easily form part of the lessons. Another important aspect of such courses will be the focus on practical applications of AI. Students will have the option to study practical applications of AI in industries such as healthcare, agriculture, education, transportation, and digital services. The rationale behind such courses will be to make students realize that AI is not just an area of futuristic applications but also applies to day-to-day situations.
Role of CBSE and early exposure
The initiative is also aligned with efforts by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) in promoting computational thinking and awareness about AI amongst students in schools. The CBSE has been working towards a set of frameworks designed for introducing AI concepts, as per the age groups, from the middle and secondary schooling levels.
Classes 11 and 12 students are supposed to have integrated their learning from NCERT class textbooks in such a way that an academic structure is offered when they are already familiar with classroom exposure to technology.
Challenges on the ground
Although it is understood that this policy has positive intentions, it will require some work to address the following issues in order to implement it effectively. The biggest challenge would be to make teachers ready for this technology. Since AI is an emerging area of knowledge for teachers, extensive training courses will be required to make them proficient in this subject.
Concerns are also present in the area of infrastructure because the lack of infrastructure can affect the ability of the school to provide computer or internet-related elements of AI education. This can prove challenging because the school shall face the issue of the digital divide.
Looking ahead
The fact that NCERT is developing AI textbooks for seniors in the secondary series is an acknowledgement that technological literacy is no longer an optional aspect in society. With artificial intelligence at the fore in economic and governance systems, in order for students to innovate and adapt to the changes associated with AI, they need to be educated in the area.
If done properly, this project also holds the key to bringing about a change in the manner in which technology is utilized by Indian students — not just as consumers but also as thinkers who can fully comprehend the potential and limitations of technology. The success of this project will hinge upon the investment of time and attention in this area.
Clear Cut Education Desk
New Delhi, UPDATED: Dec 24, 2025 01:20 IST
Written By: Ayushman Meena
