‘AI on Wheels’ programme launched at Ahopul Kishan school

PAKYONG, (IPR):Education ministerand area MLA Raju Basnet launched the ‘Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Wheels’ programme at Ahopul Kishan Secondary School on Monday.

The ‘AI on Wheels’ programme is an initiative of Pakyong district administration to develop AI literacy among students of classes 7 to 9. It is a three-year program in which around 750 students of 12 government SSS schools will participate to learn the core aspects of AI. At the end of the programme, the students will learn to develop AI models from scratch and understand the coding behind it which will help them learn the real-world practical applications of AI.

Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the programme is designed to equip students with essential technological skills, problem-solving abilities, and digital literacy, preparing them to become future-ready innovators and leaders.

The programme is implemented by Agastya Foundation and supported by Cipla Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Speaking on the occasion, Raju Basnet expressed his gratitude to Pakyong DC, Agastya Foundation, and Cipla Ltd for their efforts in bringing the ‘AI on Wheels’ initiative to the district. Sharing his insights on AI, he emphasised the role of educators in fostering a learning environment that encourages responsible technology use and prepares students for the evolving digital landscape.

Further, he also called upon school heads to take proactive measures in improving the standards of government schools.

Likewise, Education principal director Sonam Denzongpa emphasised the importance of integrating cutting-edge technology into classrooms. While acknowledging the benefits of AI-driven education, he cautioned students against its misuse and urged them to adopt a balanced approach, using AI as a tool for empowerment and innovation without replacing hard work and creativity.

Recognising the programme as a first-of-its-kind initiative, Pakyong DC Rohan Agawane thanked Agastya International Foundation and Cipla Ltd. for their efforts in implementing the ‘AI on Wheels’ programme.

He outlined the objectives of the programme, which include preparing students for the AI-driven future and improving learning outcomes in science and mathematics. He encouraged teachers to actively engage with the programme and remain enthusiastic throughout its implementation.

Further, he urged Agastya Foundation to stay committed throughout the three-year duration of the initiative, conduct annual assessments, and share the collected data to measure its impact. He also advised students to make the best use of the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skills in emerging technologies.

Tenzing Tsedame Bhutia, headmistress,Lumsey Secondary School, shared her insights on Agastya Foundation’s Science on Wheels initiative.

At the outset of the programme, Dandy Sherpa, headmaster, Ahopul Kishan Secondary School, presented a brief report on the school's progress, achievements and developmental works.

Ujwal Shendre, cluster head ,Cipla Ltd, provided insights on Cipla CSR and partnership with Agastya Foundation and Education Department. He highlighted the impact of the initiative, stating, “At Cipla, we believe in building an ecosystem where students have access to quality education and technological advancements. ‘AI on Wheels’ is a step towards ensuring that children in remote areas are not left behind in this digital revolution.”

Earlier, Vignesh Agrahar, programme executive, Agastya Foundation, provided an introductory note on the AI on Wheels programme, outlining its objectives and approach. He stated that the initiative will be implemented across twelve schools in Pakyong district, engaging students of classes 7, 8 and 9. 

As part of the programme, the students demonstrated AI activities, showcasing their understanding of artificial intelligence concepts. 

The launching programme was attended by Education joint director and CEO in-charge Narayan Mishra, joint director (Namcheybung BAC) N.B.Subba, AEO Karuna Chettri, heads of various schools under the district, representatives from Agastya Foundation, representatives from Cipla Ltd, SMC members and students.