In a landmark move, Kerala has become the first state in India to make robotics education mandatory for all Class 10 students, benefiting over 4.3 lakh learners. Starting 2nd June 2025, the innovative curriculum will be introduced through a dedicated chapter titled “The World of Robots” in the ICT (Information and Communication Technology) textbook.
The initiative, spearheaded by KITE (Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education), marks a transformative step in preparing students for a technology-driven future. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on learning, allowing students to engage in practical activities such as circuit building, sensor integration, and coding using programmable robotic kits.
As part of the rollout, 29,000 robotic kits have already been distributed to government and aided schools across Kerala. These kits include a wide range of components such as Arduino boards, IR sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and servo motors—tools that will enable students to build and program their own robotic systems. The curriculum is designed to foster problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration while laying a foundation in electronics, automation, and programming.
One of the highlights of the program is the inclusion of AI-powered smart home projects. Students will be introduced to the Pictoblocks visual programming software to create projects like face-recognition smart doors using webcams and Arduino kits. These real-world applications aim to inspire students by showing them how their skills can solve practical challenges and improve everyday life.
To ensure effective implementation, KITE has already trained 9,924 teachers in robotics education, equipping them with the skills and confidence to guide students through this pioneering curriculum. Additional training sessions are scheduled in July 2025 to support unaided schools and expand the program’s reach.
This initiative reflects Kerala’s continued leadership in digital and inclusive education. By embedding robotics and AI at the school level, the state is not only nurturing future technologists but also democratizing access to cutting-edge STEM education. It represents a paradigm shift in Indian schooling—one where every student, regardless of background, is empowered with 21st-century skills from an early age.
Kerala’s bold step may well serve as a model for other states, signaling a new era of tech-integrated education in India.
