The Indian government has rolled out the SOAR (Skilling for AI Readiness) programme, marking a significant step towards integrating artificial intelligence education into school curricula. This new initiative targets students from classes 6 to 12 and introduces three structured 15-hour modules to build AI literacy amongst young learners.The announcement came during the Bharat SkillNxt 2025 event held in New Delhi, which celebrated a decade of the Skill India Mission. Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, spoke to an audience of policymakers, educators, and industry representatives about the programme’s importance. According to details about the programme published in the Press Information Bureau (PIB), he noted that India’s school-going population, the world’s largest, would soon demonstrate how students can not only learn about AI but actually use it in their everyday activities.
Three key modules for student AI education
The SOAR programme takes a phased approach to teaching AI concepts through three distinct 15-hour modules:
- AI to be aware serves as the introductory module, covering fundamental AI concepts and showing students how AI technologies already exist in their daily lives. Students will learn about different types of AI and gain basic understanding of the field.
- AI to acquire moves students beyond awareness into practical application. This second module focuses on AI programming basics and gives students direct experience with development tools commonly used in AI projects.
- AI to aspire completes the student journey by examining AI’s ethical considerations, its effects on employment and society, and potential career paths in the sector.
Teachers will receive their own dedicated training through AI for educators, a comprehensive 45-hour module that prepares them to deliver AI education effectively to their students.
Bridging the digital divide
The SOAR initiative specifically aims to provide equal access to AI education across India’s varied geographical regions. By introducing AI concepts early in students’ academic journey, the programme seeks to create opportunities for all learners, especially those from rural areas or communities with limited resources. This approach gives these students the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an increasingly digital world.The integration of AI into school education reflects the government’s broader strategy to develop a workforce ready for future challenges and capable of competing internationally. Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, Minister of State for Education, explained that this initiative supports the National Education Policy 2020, which prioritises skill development and vocational training as essential elements of India’s educational approach.
Global collaborations for a robust ecosystem
The government has established several key partnerships to strengthen the SOAR initiative’s impact. A notable memorandum of understanding has been signed between India’s Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and the Government of the French Republic. This collaboration will support joint curriculum development, talent exchange programmes, and innovation-focused training to ensure India’s AI education framework meets international standards.Shri Jitin Prasada, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, quoted by PIB, described these partnerships as crucial for India’s development as a global technology and skills leader. “This initiative will empower our youth to compete, contribute, and lead, not just in India, but globally. We are investing in skills that change lives”.
Empowering students and teachers alike
The SOAR programme addresses both student learning and teacher preparation. The dedicated educator module ensures teachers have the necessary tools and knowledge to guide students through this rapidly evolving field.The initiative also emphasises inclusivity and diversity. As Dr. Majumdar highlighted, the programme is structured to benefit all students, with particular attention to encouraging girls’ participation in STEM subjects. This aligns with the government’s goal of creating better gender balance and representation in India’s digital and technology sectors.
A bold step toward “Viksit Bharat”
The SOAR initiative goes beyond simply preparing students for AI-related careers—it aims to develop an entire generation that feels confident and capable of using technology to solve real problems. Introducing AI skills at the school level demonstrates India’s commitment to becoming a developed nation with a workforce that can both meet job market demands and drive innovation in the global digital economy.As the SOAR initiative begins implementation, it is expected to establish India as home to the world’s largest AI-ready school population. This positions the country to take a leading role in the technological transformation currently reshaping industries across the globe.
