UP schools may offer AI as optional subject under draft secondary curriculum framework

Uttar Pradesh may introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) as an optional subject in secondary schools, following a proposal discussed during the development of the State Curriculum Framework. The suggestion was made during the second phase of a workshop organised by the Uttar Pradesh Secondary Education Council, which concluded on August 7, 2026.

The proposal was put forward by the Joint Director of Education, Lucknow who said that AI could be considered as an optional subject and then, both its pros and cons should be looked at. But, AI is not yet part of the final curriculum, since the curriculum is still in the draft stage.

Draft framework circulated for feedback

As per the official notice, 32 principals of government secondary schools from various districts participated in the workshop, along with the education officials. In the last session, participants made statements about proposed curriculum objectives and competencies in various subjects.

The draft is now out for consultation with government school principals, district school inspectors, regional secretaries, and joint directors of education for their comments, and will go forward once comments are received.

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UP plans separate secondary framework

The National Curriculum Framework has been largely based on elementary education where its activities and examples have been pitched to basic education.

A new educational system is being developed for the secondary education system in Uttar Pradesh. The intended framework is to be reflective of the local characteristics of the State and the evolving educational needs of secondary school children.

Emotional development suggested during assessment

The workshop also included recommendations to broaden the education beyond academic achievement. The principal of Jubilee Inter College, Lucknow, suggested considering the emotional development of students as part of assessment.

The principal of Government Inter College, Chandauli, proposed to incorporate a language lab so as to enhance the communication skills of students. The District School Inspector of Amethi said that the importance of imparting knowledge to the students about their surrounding and social environment and building their social responsibility.

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AI proposal remains under consideration

The District School Inspector (DSI), Sitapur, recommended that schools should be a fun place for students and incorporate the fact that they are all different. The Additional Secretary, Regional Office, Secondary Education Council, Meerut, said the vision of the draft was positive; however, there should be future challenges too.

Finally, at the end of the workshop, Bhagwati Singh, Secretary of the Secondary Education Council, emphasized the importance of the vision of the framework in its implementation. He also acknowledged the involvement of principals of government schools.