Cognitive, AI inputs key in 'arivu' syllabus revamp: TN Minister Rajmohan

CHENNAI: The State government will introduce a new curriculum, ‘TN Arivu’, focusing on analytical thinking, artificial intelligence (AI), and emerging technologies for students in Classes 1 to 12 starting in the 2027-28 academic year.

Participating in the debate on grant demands for the School Education Department, Minister Rajmohan said the curriculum would equip students with the skills needed to meet the demands of a rapidly changing future.

As part of the new initiatives, students will also have a ‘no-school-bag’ day once a month, during which they will not be required to carry books to school.

The government will pilot ‘TN PAL’, an AI-powered adaptive learning programme, in 500 government middle schools for students of Classes 6 to 8 at a cost of Rs 70 lakh. The initiative aims to provide personalised learning tailored to students’ needs and learning levels.

The minister also announced that sports jerseys would be provided to 23.40 lakh students in government and government-aided schools at a cost of Rs 81.89 crore.

Under the ‘PLAY’ initiative, every student will have a dedicated period each day for sports, arts, and co-curricular activities, providing them with opportunities to identify, develop, and showcase their talents.

Meanwhile, during the debate on the demands for grants for Higher Education, Minister P. Viswanathan announced that the monthly remuneration of guest lecturers working on a consolidated-pay basis in arts and science, engineering and polytechnic colleges would be increased from Rs 30,000 to Rs 35,000.

He also announced that 6,000 assistant professors would be appointed in government arts and science, engineering and polytechnic colleges in three phases.