Karnataka Introduces AI as Vocational Subject for Classes 9 and 10 Under NSQF

The Karnataka Department of School Education and Literacy has introduced Artificial Intelligence (AI) as an NSQF-aligned vocational subject for students of Classes 9 and 10 from the 2026-27 academic year. The programme is being implemented through Samagra Shikshana Karnataka (SSK) and will be available in 1,642 government high schools across the state.

Under the new arrangement, students can opt for AI as a skill-based subject in place of the third-language option under the applicable school framework. The initiative is intended to introduce students to emerging technologies while developing skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, technical knowledge and employability.

AI Vocational Education in Karnataka Schools

The programme has received approval from the Project Approval Board and covers different categories of government schools. The rollout includes 1,180 newly approved high schools, 381 NSQF schools and 81 existing single-sector schools, taking the total to 1,642 institutions.

In the 81 existing single-sector schools, vocational streams such as Beauty and Wellness, Retail and Apparel will be replaced by AI under the new arrangement.

The AI course is aligned with the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) and is intended to give students exposure to future-oriented skills at the secondary-school level. Officials have also indicated that AI-based skill education can continue at the Pre-University level through NSQF-aligned courses.

Karnataka AI Course 2026-27: Guest Teacher Recruitment

To implement the programme, SSK has directed participating schools to appoint one AI guest teacher for the 2026-27 academic year. The guest teachers will receive an honorarium of ₹20,000 per month.

The selection will be carried out by a committee headed by the School Development and Monitoring Committee (SDMC). Eligible applicants include candidates with qualifications such as a bachelor's degree in Computer Applications, Computer Science or Information Technology, or a diploma/postgraduate diploma in relevant computer-related disciplines. At least one year of work experience and proficiency in the local language and English have also been specified.

AI Subject and Third-Language Arrangement

The introduction of AI has generated discussion over the continuation of language education in government schools. The current arrangement allows students to choose an NSQF vocational skill subject instead of a third language under the applicable framework.

Education officials have said that the third language will continue to be taught in flagship schools at lower levels, while the new AI option is intended to expand access to emerging skill education. The government has also stated that existing teachers will not be transferred because of the AI programme.

Hindi Teachers' Association Raises Concerns

The Karnataka State High School Hindi Teachers' Association has opposed the move and urged the government to retain the existing three-language arrangement. The association has also raised concerns about the redeployment of language teachers from schools implementing AI.

An SSK direction had proposed deploying third-language teachers from participating schools to nearby government schools experiencing teacher shortages. The concerns have led to discussions between education officials and teacher representatives.

Karnataka AI Education Initiative: What Students Should Know

The introduction of AI represents an expansion of vocational and skill-based education at the secondary-school level. Students studying in participating government schools will have an opportunity to develop familiarity with AI and related digital competencies alongside their regular academic learning.

The programme is being rolled out during the 2026-27 academic year, and schools have been directed to make arrangements for AI instruction and guest faculty. Students and parents should check with their respective schools for the subjects available and the specific implementation arrangements.

The Karnataka AI vocational subject programme for Classes 9 and 10 is part of the state's broader effort to introduce NSQF-aligned skills in government schools. Further changes to the subject structure or teacher deployment should be followed through official notifications from the Karnataka School Education Department and Samagra Shikshana Karnataka.