AI Teacher IRIS Set to Revolutionize Education in Punjab

Chandigarh: The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, continues to set remarkable records in education reforms. Introducing innovative concepts such as the School of Eminence, School of Happiness, and School of Brilliance, the government is making significant strides toward shaping the future of students in government schools. Punjab is on track to become the first state in the country where every school will have no shortage of teachers, ensuring a robust teaching force in all schools.

To enhance the skills of educators, the government has arranged training programs for principals, headmasters, and teachers at prestigious institutions such as IIM Ahmedabad, Singapore, and most recently, Finland. Last month, 72 primary school teachers from Punjab were sent to Finland—known for its exceptional primary education—for a 21-day international training program. This initiative aims to cultivate leadership and teaching skills among educators. Earlier, school principals underwent training at the Singapore Principal Academy.

Adding to these efforts, Punjab has embraced Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education with the launch of the state’s first AI-powered teacher, IRIS. This groundbreaking platform, introduced during an event in Patiala, promises to revolutionize teaching by offering personalized learning experiences, real-time feedback, and enhanced teacher productivity. Initially, IRIS will be implemented in selected i-schools, bridging the gap between traditional and technology-driven teaching methods.

The government's focus on fostering parent-teacher interaction through Mega PTM initiatives has also strengthened the role of parents in their children's education. The development of schools has been further enhanced with improved connectivity, especially in border villages, thanks to BSNL services.

Emerging from the traditional education structure, the Mann government has introduced new principles in education. The School of Eminence emphasizes professional training, the School of Applied Learning focuses on vocational skills, and the School of Happiness integrates child psychology into the learning experience, reflecting the essence of the New Era Education Policy.

Opportunities Through Schools of Eminence
The School of Eminence initiative offers talented students advanced opportunities, equipping them with the resources and preparation needed for competitive exams such as JEE and NEET. These schools boast state-of-the-art infrastructure, including smart classrooms, laboratories, sports facilities, and playgrounds, fostering holistic development.

Under the government’s plan, 117 such schools are being established across Punjab. The overwhelming response from parents and students underscores the success of this initiative, with over 2,000 applications received for Class 9 admissions and more than 3,000 for Class 11 admissions.

To complement these reforms, the Punjab government has launched a comprehensive infrastructure development mission. This includes constructing thousands of new classrooms, securing school boundaries with walls, providing bus services for students, installing Wi-Fi in schools, and deploying security guards to ensure student safety.

With these transformative initiatives, the Punjab government is setting a precedent in education, fostering a brighter and more equitable future for the youth.