MP to introduce AI from Class 8, vocational courses in schools; CM Mohan Yadav unveils education reforms
Bhopal, May 21
In a major push to modernise school education in the state, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Thursday approved a roadmap to introduce Artificial Intelligence skills from classes 8 to 12 and directed the rollout of vocational training in agriculture, animal husbandry, and fisheries at the high school level.
The decisions were taken during a comprehensive review meeting of the School Education Department chaired by the Chief Minister in Bhopal.
"Education should not remain limited to textbooks alone. Students must be equipped with practical skills, AI knowledge, and employment-oriented training so they can contribute effectively to society and the economy," Chief Minister Yadav said in statement after the review meeting.
He directed officials to complete all preparations before the new academic session begins on June 16, stressing regular monitoring, technology-driven learning, and innovation-based teaching to improve quality.
Another key announcement was public recognition for top-performing schools.
Institutions recording 100 per cent examination results will be publicly felicitated, with 26 schools achieving the feat this year.
The Chief Minister said that schools securing above 90 or 95 per cent results should also be recognised.
"Schools that consistently deliver excellent results are creating the future of Madhya Pradesh. Their contribution should be publicly acknowledged and celebrated," he added.
The meeting approved in principle the "Shiksha Ghar Yojana" to help students who dropped out after failing Class 8 or higher to complete High School and Higher Secondary education through the Madhya Pradesh State Open School Education Board.
To strengthen cultural education, Chief Minister Yadav directed the inclusion of King Veer Vikramaditya's biography in school textbooks and ordered the preparation of an engaging book on Guru Sandipani, the teacher of Lord Krishna.
"Our government is building a strong foundation for a developed and self-reliant Madhya Pradesh by ensuring quality education through modern Sandipani schools. Providing the best educational facilities and resources to every student is our top priority," the Chief Minister told officials.
The department also reported record enrolment gains.
Enrollment in Class 1 rose by 32.4 per cent in 2025-26 compared to last year, while enrollment in Classes 9 to 12 increased by 4.25 per cent -- the highest jump in recent years.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Vocational training in agriculture and fisheries is brilliant for a state like MP where farming is the backbone. My uncle's village in Malwa region would benefit so much from this. But please make sure these courses are actually taught by professionals, not just theory classes. 🙏
Interesting to see India pushing AI in schools. Even in the US, this is still being debated. But 32% increase in Class 1 enrollment is huge - shows people are starting to trust government schools again after the pandemic. Hope the infrastructure can keep up.
The "Shiksha Ghar Yojana" is the real game-changer here. So many children in rural MP drop out after Class 8 because they have to work or get married. Giving them a second chance through open schooling is a compassionate move. 👏
I understand the cultural angle, but adding King Vikramaditya and Guru Sandipani to textbooks feels like pushing a political narrative. Education should focus on skills, not mythology. Let the students learn about our heritage through optional courses, not mandatory ones.
As someone who works in edtech, I can tell you that AI literacy at school level is the future. But MP needs massive investment in computer labs, internet connectivity, and power backup in rural areas. The vision is great but execution is everything. Let's see if they deliver by June 16.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.