- Strategic MoU aims to introduce Artificial Intelligence literacy to school students across India
- Teacher-First model to equip educators with tools and training before large-scale classroom adoption
- AI textbooks, student training and national hackathons to nurture future innovators
- NavneetAI already reaching 500 schools and 2,000 teachers across 14 States
- Collaboration seeks to build responsible AI awareness among students from Grades 3 to 10
NE EDUCATION BUREAU
GANDHINAGAR, MAR 9
In a major push to bring artificial intelligence education into Indian classrooms, the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with Navneet Education to develop learning resources, train teachers and inspire students to explore emerging technologies from an early stage.
The partnership was announced during the AI Impact Summit 2026, marking a significant step towards embedding AI literacy within school education across India.
The initiative brings together IIT Gandhinagar’s academic and technical expertise with Navneet Education’s long-standing experience in educational publishing to design innovative learning tools that make complex AI concepts easier for school students to understand.
Currently, NavneetAI engages with more than 500 schools and over 2,000 teachers across 14 states, reflecting a growing demand for structured AI education in schools.
Preparing students for the age of Artificial Intelligence
Amit Prashant emphasised that introducing emerging technologies early in education is essential for preparing the next generation.
“Artificial Intelligence is going to play a significant role in the future, and this partnership will help translate academic expertise into engaging learning resources for school students.”
He added that technological change often begins with uncertainty but eventually becomes an integral part of daily life.
“Whenever a new technology emerges, there is often hesitation initially, but over time it becomes an essential part of our lives. Through this collaboration with Navneet Education, we hope to create learning resources that spark curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and give students deeper exposure to new ideas in science and technology.”
Empowering teachers before transforming classrooms
Harshil Gala stressed that the transformation of AI education must begin by equipping teachers with the right knowledge and tools.
“If India is to dominate the next decade of global AI innovation, the transformation must begin in our classrooms. It begins by empowering teachers and students at scale — with the right tools, the right mindset, and responsible AI.”
He said the collaboration reflects a larger shift in how learning should evolve in the digital age.
“Our partnership with IIT Gandhinagar is a step towards building that future, where AI strengthens human intelligence rather than replacing it.”
Highlighting the need for practical learning resources, he added:
“What we need is a larger shift in the way we approach learning. By bridging technical expertise from institutions like IITs with educational publishing, we can create resources that truly prepare the next generation.”
He also underscored the role of education in shaping the future of society.
“The younger generation will build the future of our country. It is important that the learning materials they use help them think critically, build strong foundations, and contribute meaningfully to society.”
Connecting technology with real-world learning
Mayank Singh, Jibaben Patel Chair (AI) Professor and Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at IIT Gandhinagar, said the initiative will help students understand how emerging technologies can solve real-world problems.
“It is important for students to understand technologies like AI and how they can be used to solve real-world problems.”
He also stressed that technology in education should remain balanced and not become overly dependent on screens.
“At the same time, the way we introduce technology in education also matters. Learning should not be limited to screens alone, but should encourage curiosity, creativity, and deeper thinking.”
Five-Pillar strategy to build AI literacy
The collaboration will operate through a five-pillar framework designed to make AI education practical, credible and accessible.
Teacher Empowerment and Capability Development
IIT Gandhinagar faculty and experts will conduct virtual AI training programmes for school teachers, helping them understand AI concepts and career pathways within the technology ecosystem.
Academic Credentialing of AI Content
Navneet will develop AI-focused textbooks and learning materials that will be academically reviewed by IIT Gandhinagar experts. Publications will feature a dedicated “IIT Gandhinagar Corner” showcasing insights and research from the institute.
Student Outreach and Early Exposure
An annual virtual AI training programme will be organised for students from Grades 3 to 10, delivered by IIT Gandhinagar students to spark early interest in emerging technologies.
Navneet Product Labs for AI and Automation
In an innovative industry–academia model, Navneet will present real-world business challenges to IIT Gandhinagar students, encouraging them to develop AI-based solutions.
National-Level AI Hackathon
The institutions will jointly host a nationwide AI hackathon to inspire young learners to create practical AI-driven solutions and strengthen innovation skills.
Building India’s future AI ecosystem
Through this collaboration, IIT Gandhinagar and Navneet Education aim to create a sustainable AI learning ecosystem that nurtures curiosity, strengthens technological understanding and prepares students for a rapidly evolving digital future.
By integrating academic excellence with classroom learning, the partnership seeks to ensure that students are not just consumers of technology — but future creators and innovators in the AI era.
