Robotics Learning to Begin June 2 with Over 4.3 Lakh Students Benefiting
Thiruvananthapuram, May 18 – In a groundbreaking move, Kerala has become the first state in India to make robotics education mandatory for all Class 10 students. Starting from the new academic year on June 2, more than 4.3 lakh students will study robotics as part of their Information and Communication Technology (ICT) curriculum.The robotics module is integrated into the sixth chapter, titled "The World of Robots", in the first volume of the new ICT textbook. This chapter introduces students to the fundamentals of robotics through hands-on learning activities that include building circuits, using sensors and actuators, and controlling electronic devices via computer programming.
Robotics Kits and Infrastructure Rolled Out Statewide
To ensure effective implementation, the Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE), the technical arm of the state’s General Education Department, has distributed 29,000 robotic kits to high schools across Kerala. These kits include essential components such as Arduino breadboards, IR sensors, servo motors, and jumper wires.According to K Anvar Sadath, CEO of KITE and Chairman of the ICT Textbook Committee, the robotics curriculum builds on Kerala’s earlier success in integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) education for Class 7 students. AI learning is now extended to Classes 8, 9, and 10 through the updated ICT syllabus.
Hands-On Projects and AI Integration
The robotics textbook kicks off with a project where students design and build an automated hand sanitiser dispenser. Using the components in their kits, students will program the device to activate when a hand is detected.Further into the curriculum, students will explore AI-powered smart home systems. They will use the Pictoblocks programming IDE, webcam-enabled laptops, and Arduino kits to create smart doors with face recognition capabilities, leveraging the software’s built-in Face Detection model.
Teacher Training and Inclusive Implementation
KITE has already trained 9,924 teachers on the updated ICT curriculum. Additional training sessions, specifically focused on robotics, will be conducted in July. Support will also be extended to unaided schools that follow the state syllabus and may need additional resources.To ensure accessibility, the new ICT textbook is available in Malayalam, English, Tamil, and Kannada mediums.
This initiative reflects Kerala’s ongoing commitment to equipping students with future-ready skills through innovative, tech-driven education.