October 6, 2026, (Inside AI) — Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has directed officials to explore introducing Artificial Intelligence training in government schools from Class 6, with support from the Information Technology department and private partners. The announcement came during a review meeting on Monday focused on the state's 100-day programmes, recruitments, and priority schemes.
"AI training has already started for Class 9 students in government schools. The officials were asked to work toward extending it to students from Class 6," Shivakumar said.
The move signals a significant expansion of Karnataka's AI education efforts, positioning the state as a potential leader in early tech exposure. The initiative aims to integrate AI fundamentals into the curriculum for younger students, preparing them for a future where AI literacy is increasingly essential.
Google has expressed interest in providing AI training in schools, and officials were asked to examine the company's initiatives in Telangana as part of this exercise, according to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) statement. This collaboration could bring substantial resources and expertise to Karnataka's schools, though details remain undisclosed.
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In addition to the school training, Shivakumar directed officials to identify land for establishing an AI university in the state. This university would likely serve as a hub for advanced research and higher education in AI, further solidifying Karnataka's commitment to the field. The state is also taking steps to recruit 956 teachers on an outsourcing basis to support these educational expansions.
The review meeting also covered other educational initiatives. Shivakumar directed officials to organize visits for Class 9 and 11 students from 941 urban schools to progressive farmers' fields. Students should be provided facilities to stay overnight in villages, including community halls and hostels, and private schools should also mandatorily implement the programme, he said. The programme should be completed by December.
On the development of 1,000 Karnataka Public Schools (KPS), Shivakumar directed officials to complete preparations for laying the foundation stones by November 14. The implementation process has been simplified by authorizing deputy commissioners to approve detailed project reports and tenders for KPS, he said.
"The government also plans to develop 100 KPS schools through corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds, with companies having already shown interest in developing 60 schools."
Reviewing the Agriculture Department, the chief minister said 25 lakh SMS messages had been sent to farmers under the CM Raitha Chaitanya Agritech Mission. He directed officials to also send video messages explaining the scheme in a simple manner.
This push for AI education aligns with broader trends in India, where states like Telangana have already partnered with tech giants to introduce AI in schools. Karnataka's initiative could set a precedent for other states, but challenges remain. Critics may question the readiness of infrastructure and teacher training, especially with the reliance on outsourcing for 956 teachers. The success will depend on effective implementation and sustained funding.
Google's involvement, while promising, also raises questions about data privacy and the influence of private companies in public education. The state government has not yet released specifics on how these partnerships will be structured or what safeguards will be in place.
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As Karnataka moves forward, the focus will be on translating these directives into tangible outcomes. The planned AI university and expanded school programs could significantly impact the state's educational landscape, but only if executed with careful planning and transparency.
