In Surat, a city in Gujarat, India, an exciting educational initiative is taking place. The Surat Municipal Corporation has launched a pilot project in 18 schools called Suman Schools. This project aims to introduce students to advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, and drone technology. Starting from January 2025, these schools will offer smart education to students in grades 9 to 12.
More than 11,000 students will receive free technical education in 12 AI labs. This includes learning about 3D printing, Augmented Reality (AR), and Virtual Reality (VR). The goal is to equip students with essential skills for the future.
The initiative aligns with the new education policy introduced by the state government, which emphasises smart education. The aim is to prepare students for a tech-savvy world. In Suman Schools, students are not only learning traditional subjects but also gaining knowledge in cutting-edge technologies.
Students in grades 9 and 10 are learning about front-end development and drone aviation. They have hands-on experience flying drones and working in robotics labs. Through a four-year course, they will learn about AI, 3D technology, and robotics, helping them build bright futures.
The state government has recognised the need for smart education as a necessity rather than a trend. With the motto ‘School as a Gateway to New Opportunities’, the government has launched the ‘Tech Education for All’ campaign. In 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 50,300 smart classrooms and 19,600 modern computer labs across the state.
This initiative has transformed schools into smart and innovative learning spaces. As part of this project, students from grades 9 to 12 will now have access to technology-based labs that use modern tools and methods.
Municipal Commissioner Shalini Agarwal highlighted that the primary aim of this initiative is to ensure that children from middle-class families do not just rely on traditional education. They will also gain knowledge and experience in AI, 3D printing, robotics, AR/VR, and drone technology.
The Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel, inaugurated the AI labs in 12 of the 18 Suman Schools. Over 11,000 students are receiving free technical education alongside their regular curriculum. This is a significant step towards making students not just job seekers but also technology-savvy entrepreneurs and innovators.
The Suman Schools have seen several students participate in state and national competitions, with 34 students selected at the national level. This is a proud achievement for the schools and reflects the success of the initiative.
Mahendra Kumar, the principal of Suman High School No. 6, stated that the goal is to provide students with smart technical education. Children are now gaining foundational knowledge of technology, allowing them to build their futures through project-based learning. This initiative is particularly beneficial for students from middle and lower-income families.
In addition, the school conducts various lectures weekly, covering topics like AI and STEM-based curricula. Surat Municipal Corporation is the only municipality in the country where Suman Schools provide AI-based education at the secondary and higher secondary levels.
Last week, during a visit by the Chief Minister to the Sanjeev Kumar Auditorium, students presented their AI, 3D printing, and robotics projects. The Delhi Education Minister was also impressed by the smart education provided at Suman Schools.
Under the guidance of the state government, the use of technology, mission-driven curricula, and skill enhancement approaches make this educational model by Surat Municipal Corporation truly inspiring. This initiative is not just about today but also shapes the future of education in India.