NCERT at 66: AI-Ready Classrooms, Multilingual Texts Take Centre Stage
NCERT marks 66th Foundation Day with focus on AI, multilingual learning, and revised textbooks for Classes 10-12.
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) marked its 66th Foundation Day in New Delhi with a clear emphasis on modernising school education. Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi used the occasion to outline the organisation's evolving priorities, calling for a shift towards greater innovation, inclusivity, and research-driven pedagogy.
A key announcement was the development of revised textbooks for Classes 10 to 12 on a 'mission mode' basis. This follows the recent rollout of new books for Classes 1 to 9, which were aligned with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF). Joshi underscored NCERT's pivotal role in realising the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' by fostering a robust education system that cultivates skilled and globally aware citizens.
Addressing the rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence, the minister stressed the need for textbooks and teaching methods to evolve. The goal is to equip students with the ability to understand AI and use it responsibly. He also highlighted the importance of parental awareness regarding children's digital habits to ensure proper guidance.
On the inclusivity front, NCERT is working to prepare textbooks for Classes 1 to 8 in all 22 languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. Additionally, the council is developing 121 language primers, including materials for 93 tribal languages.
To support these initiatives, Joshi inaugurated several new facilities during the celebrations, including a Robotics Learning Centre, a Translation Lab, and an upgraded television studio.