Delhi govt plans to set up AI labs in schools, teachers flag infra issues

While many teachers and principals welcomed the ambitious plan, they also voiced concerns about existing constraints in infrastructure and resources.

Written by Vidheesha Kuntamalla

New Delhi | December 15, 2024 05:05 AM IST

2 min read

A government school teacher in Northeast Delhi’s Sunder Nagri emphasised the importance of teacher training for the initiative’s success. (Pixabay)

The Delhi government has announced plans to set up Artificial Intelligence (AI) Labs in select schools under its jurisdiction to foster advanced technological learning and innovation among students. While many teachers and principals welcomed the ambitious plan, they also voiced concerns about existing constraints in infrastructure and resources.

In a recent notification, the Directorate of Education (DoE) has invited “qualified and interested agencies to submit proposals and showcase a demonstration of their AI Lab setup and capabilities”. These proposals are expected to detail lab features, infrastructure needs, training modules, and implementation strategies. The aim, DoE said, is to provide a better understanding of how such labs can transform education.

Ranveer, head of Sarvodaya Bal Vidyalaya in Mangolpuri, said, “It would be a wonderful opportunity for several students to progress and develop their careers in the tech field. This would also benefit young teachers eager to learn and train in new skills.”

But he highlighted key challenges. “Students may not be able to practice what they learn at home due to limited resources; many come from humble backgrounds. It would be great if the government can offer support”.

He pointed out the pressing need to address overcrowding and insufficient facilities in schools: “We have 2,250 students, including those in open school programmes. Some classes are held in labs due to lack of space. With the government’s support, we hope to overcome these hurdles.”

A government school teacher in Northeast Delhi’s Sunder Nagri emphasised the importance of teacher training for the initiative’s success. “It would be greatly viable if posts for specialised teachers are created and existing teachers trained. Currently, our vocational and computer labs are combined, which limits resources.”

The teacher also stressed the importance of continuity: “For this initiative to succeed, there must be pathways for students to continue learning these skills in higher education and gain proper qualifications in college.”

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artificial intelligence Delhi government Delhi schools