UP Makes AI Mandatory in Schools Under Project Praveen
UP CM Yogi Adityanath takes a review meeting in Kanpur (Image UP Info Dept)
‘AI for All’ course introduced in Classes 9–12 vocational training across 1,200+ schools from 2026–27
By AMIT KUMAR
Lucknow, March 26, 2026 — In a major push to future-ready education, the Uttar Pradesh government has introduced Artificial Intelligence (AI) into its flagship vocational training programme, ‘Project Praveen’, making an ‘AI for All’ course mandatory for students of Classes 9 to 12. The initiative, to be rolled out from the 2026–27 financial year, is expected to benefit over two lakh students across more than 1,200 government and aided schools in the state.
Launched under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the move marks the first time AI training has been made compulsory within school-level vocational education in Uttar Pradesh. The programme, spearheaded by the Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission, will include a dedicated four-hour AI module for both students and trainers, aimed at building foundational understanding of emerging technologies alongside existing skill-based training.
Officials said ‘Project Praveen’, a 210-hour free skill development programme, already covers sectors such as IT, healthcare, electronics, and beauty services. With the addition of AI, students will now gain exposure to critical competencies like data analysis, problem-solving, and digital literacy. Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Vocational Education Kapil Dev Agarwal said the initiative aligns training with industry demand, ensuring students are job-ready upon completing their education.
To ensure effective delivery, all trainers will be required to complete the AI course before teaching students. A state-level online workshop will be held on March 28 under the supervision of Dr. Pavitra Tandon, where AI experts will train instructors. Mission Director Pulkit Khare described the move as a “major transformation” in school education, adding that it will empower students to convert technological challenges into opportunities.
The government has also developed customised AI modules tailored to specific job roles such as IT customer care, tailoring, healthcare assistance, and digital services. Officials say the initiative is a significant step toward aligning Uttar Pradesh’s youth with global technological standards and strengthening employability in a rapidly evolving job market.
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