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STORY CREDITS Writer: Corena Pereira Photo: Megh Modi |
Collaboration focuses on teacher training, innovative learning resources, and student engagement to build early understanding of artificial intelligence.
Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN) signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Navneet Education on March 9, 2026, to strengthen artificial intelligence (AI) education in Indian schools. The MoU was announced during the AI Impact Summit 2026. The partnership aims to combine IITGN’s academic and technical expertise with Navneet Education’s experience in educational publishing to develop innovative learning resources that make AI concepts more accessible and relevant for school students across the country.
The collaboration establishes an academic–industry framework to embed AI literacy in school education. With a teacher-first approach, Navneet focuses on preparing educators before large-scale classroom adoption. Currently, NavneetAI engages with more than 500 schools and over 2,000 teachers across 14 states.
During the meeting, representatives from IIT Gandhinagar and Navneet Education discussed strengthening the integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence in school education. The collaboration will focus on developing practical learning resources that make complex technological concepts more accessible to students.
Prof Amit Prashant, Dean, External Relations, IIT Gandhinagar, opined that the collaboration reflects the institute’s commitment to bringing cutting-edge knowledge to school education and preparing students for emerging technological shifts. He noted that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence are shaping the future of learning and it is important that students are exposed to these developments early.
“Artificial Intelligence is going to play a significant role in the future, and this partnership will help translate academic expertise into engaging learning resources for school students,” he further added. “Whenever a new technology emerges, there is often hesitation initially, but over time it becomes an essential part of our lives. Through this collaboration with Navneet Education, we hope to create learning resources that spark curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and give students deeper exposure to new ideas in science and technology,” said Prof Amit Prashant.
“If India is to dominate the next decade of global AI innovation, the transformation must begin in our classrooms. It begins by empowering teachers and students at scale — with the right tools, the right mindset, and responsible AI. Our partnership with IIT Gandhinagar is a step towards building that future, where AI strengthens human intelligence rather than replacing it,” said Harshil Gala, President, Navneet Education.
He highlighted the need for educational content that goes beyond theoretical knowledge and provides practical context and real-world relevance. Speaking about the evolving education landscape, he stressed the importance of collaboration between academic institutions and educational publishers. “What we need is a larger shift in the way we approach learning. By bridging technical expertise from institutions like IITs with educational publishing, we can create resources that truly prepare the next generation,” he added.
Gala also underlined the role of education in shaping society. “The younger generation will build the future of our country. It is important that the learning materials they use help them think critically, build strong foundations, and contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.
Prof Mayank Singh, Jibaben Patel Chair (AI) Professor and Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at IIT Gandhinagar, and Coordinator of the Centre for AI-Driven Innovations@IITGN, expressed that the initiative will help students connect technology with real-world challenges. He stressed that while it is important for students to be introduced to emerging technologies, the approach to technology in education must remain balanced.
“It is important for students to understand technologies like AI and how they can be used to solve real-world problems,” he said. “At the same time, the way we introduce technology in education also matters. Learning should not be limited to screens alone, but should encourage curiosity, creativity, and deeper thinking,” he added.
Prof Singh further noted that the collaboration aims to develop learning material that encourages students to explore emerging technologies and think about innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
A Five-Pillar Framework for AI Integration
The partnership is designed around five key focus areas to ensure that AI education becomes practical, credible, and accessible across schools in India.
- Teacher Empowerment and Capability Development
IIT Gandhinagar faculty members and nominated experts will conduct virtual AI training sessions for school teachers. These sessions aim to demystify AI concepts, strengthen applied understanding, and introduce educators to evolving career pathways within the AI ecosystem. By enhancing teacher competency, the initiative ensures that AI learning is effectively delivered at the classroom level. - Academic Credentialing of AI Content
Navneet will develop and publish AI-focused textbooks and learning resources tailored for school education. These materials will undergo academic review and credentialing by IIT Gandhinagar experts to ensure conceptual clarity, pedagogical soundness, and academic rigour. A dedicated “IIT Gandhinagar Corner” within the publications will feature expert insights and thought leadership from the institute, adding depth and credibility to the content. - Student Outreach and Early Exposure
The collaboration also includes an annual virtual AI training programme for students from Grades 3 to 10. Delivered by IIT Gandhinagar students, the initiative aims to nurture early interest in AI and encourage young learners to transition from passive users of technology to responsible creators and innovators. - Navneet Product Labs for AI and Automation
In a unique industry–academia engagement model, Navneet will present live business challenges to IIT Gandhinagar students. Guided by Navneet’s industry mentors, students will work on solving real-world problems using AI and automation technologies, fostering hands-on learning and innovation. - National-Level AI Hackathon
The two institutions will jointly organise a nationwide AI hackathon to inspire students to build practical AI-driven solutions. The event aims to cultivate problem-solving skills and encourage innovation among school and higher education learners.
Strengthening the AI Learning Ecosystem
Through this MoU, Navneet and IIT Gandhinagar, reinforce their commitment to nation-building through school education. By integrating institutional academic excellence with widespread classroom engagement, the partnership aims to build a sustainable AI learning ecosystem that empowers teachers, nurtures young talent, and prepares India’s students for a technology-driven future.