In a revolutionary move to prepare students for the tech-driven future, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially introduced coding and AI in schools as part of its revised curriculum from August 2025. This development aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) which emphasizes digital literacy, problem-solving, and innovation as critical 21st-century skills.
The new CBSE syllabus change applies to students in Classes 9 to 12 across all affiliated schools in India. The introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and coding as elective and skill subjects is aimed at fostering computational thinking and creativity from an early age.
Key Features of the New Curriculum
The updated CBSE curriculum will now incorporate AI in schools alongside traditional academic subjects. Here’s how this change will impact learning:
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Coding will be offered as a skill subject from Class 6 onward and as an elective from Class 9
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Artificial Intelligence will be introduced as a separate subject starting Class 9
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Practical sessions, project work, and real-life applications will be emphasized
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Students will learn basics of Python, block programming, and logic building
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AI topics will include machine learning, data patterns, and ethical usage of technology
This major CBSE syllabus change ensures that students are no longer just consumers of technology but creators and innovators as well.
How Schools Will Implement the New AI and Coding Curriculum
CBSE has directed all affiliated schools to begin training their teachers and upgrading lab facilities to meet the requirements of AI in education. Schools will receive resource handbooks, teacher training modules, and access to online content to assist with implementation.
Key requirements for schools:
| Implementation Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Teacher Training | Mandatory 40-hour AI/coding training for selected faculty |
| Infrastructure | Computer labs with minimum 20 functional systems |
| Project Submission | Term-wise coding or AI-based project to be evaluated |
| Online Resources | Access to CBSE coding portal and partner platforms |
| Assessment Format | 50% theory, 50% practical/project-based assessments |
These reforms are being gradually rolled out beginning August 2025, and full-scale implementation is expected by the 2026 academic session.
Benefits of Coding & AI for Students
This shift in the CBSE syllabus change brings long-term benefits for students and the Indian education system:
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Encourages logical and analytical thinking
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Boosts confidence in using and building digital solutions
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Prepares students for future careers in tech, robotics, data science, and cybersecurity
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Helps reduce the digital divide across rural and urban schools
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Aligns with NEP 2020 vision for holistic and futuristic education
Early exposure to AI in schools gives students a significant advantage in both higher education and job readiness.
Support from NEP 2020 and Industry Collaboration
The curriculum revision is backed by NEP 2020, which strongly advocates experiential learning and coding education. CBSE is also partnering with tech leaders and EdTech platforms to deliver content and tools that make AI in education more accessible.
Some partnerships include:
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Collaboration with IBM, Intel, and Microsoft for content design
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Joint training modules with NASSCOM and coding startups
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Free student access to AI labs in select schools from August 2025
This forward-thinking reform ensures Indian students are ready for the emerging global tech economy.
FAQs
From when will AI and coding be part of the CBSE curriculum?
AI in schools and coding will be implemented in all CBSE-affiliated schools starting August 2025, with Class 9 to 12 students getting access first.
Will coding be mandatory for all students?
No, coding will be offered as an optional skill subject, but students are strongly encouraged to take it under the revised CBSE syllabus change.
What programming languages will be taught?
Languages such as Scratch, Python, and JavaScript will be included, depending on class level and course module.
How will teachers be trained?
All schools must nominate teachers who will undergo 40 hours of hands-on training in coding and AI in education.
What is the role of NEP 2020 in this reform?
NEP 2020 outlines a modern education structure focused on technology and skill-building, forming the foundation for introducing coding and AI in the school curriculum.
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