The Chhattisgarh government plans to introduce AI-enabled learning modules for tribal students studying in government schools, open schools and colleges across the state. The proposed modules will be structured according to students’ educational levels and are intended to cover skills linked to emerging technology and industry requirements.The initiative is being planned as an expansion of the Prayas Residential School model, which currently focuses substantially on competitive examinations. The Department of Tribal, SC, OBC and Minority Development is also considering AI and robotics laboratories and specialised courses for college students.AI modules to be introduced in stagesSonmoni Borah, Principal Secretary of the Department of Tribal, SC, OBC and Minority Development, said digital literacy is already being taught through instructor-led, AI-enabled learning in schools.The department plans to introduce structured and certified AI modules at different stages. The proposed curriculum will begin with foundational concepts before progressing to more advanced applications of AI and digital technologies. For students in colleges, the department is considering intensive AI courses that can be pursued alongside regular academic programmes.The initiative follows Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s interaction with students who qualified NEET, during which he spoke about improving facilities and strengthening the Prayas education system.Prayas schools expand competitive exam preparationThe academic programme at Prayas schools has also expanded over the past year, with faculty members and experts from IITs, coaching institutes and other institutions teaching students in Bastar and other parts of Chhattisgarh.The teaching support has focused particularly on JEE and NEET preparation. Students are also being introduced to fields including quantum computing and semiconductors as part of broader career exposure.Khyati Lehre, a NEET qualifier from Gudhyari in Raipur, attributed her preparation to the learning environment at Prayas. She cited air-conditioned classrooms, mini-halls, computer laboratories and a distraction-free campus among the facilities available to students.Faculty reports interest in technology careersSatyam Agrawal of IIT Kharagpur, who teaches Physics to Classes XI and XII students preparing for JEE, said: “I don’t find it difficult to control them; my whole energy goes into teaching.”According to Agrawal, around 90% of students are interested in pursuing studies at IITs, while others have shown interest in careers including the NDA and Navy. He said students have maintained punctuality and that their academic output has sometimes exceeded expectations.The department plans to extend technology-focused learning to students in remote tribal areas through the proposed modules and facilities.
