Tamil Nadu Introduces Computer Science, AI, and Coding in School Curriculum for Classes 6-9.

tarting from the 2025-26 academic year, Tamil Nadu’s school curriculum for Classes 6 to 9 will include computer science, artificial intelligence (AI), coding, and online tools, as announced by the State Council for Educational Research and Training (SCERT).

This progressive move aims to equip students with future-ready skills, aligning with global technological advancements. This report explores the details of the new curriculum, its components, and its potential impact on education in Tamil Nadu, optimized for search visibility on this topic.

Key Components of the New CurriculumThe SCERT, in its final stages of syllabus development, has incorporated expert inputs to create a comprehensive curriculum.

Key highlights include:  

Coding and Programming: Students will begin with visual-based programming tools like Scratch and Blockly, enabling them to create animations, games, and interactive stories. As they advance, they will learn Python and other programming languages to write basic programs.  

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: The curriculum will introduce AI concepts, including pattern recognition, and explore real-world applications of machine learning.  

Robotics: Basics of robotics will be included to foster innovation and problem-solving skills.  

Online Tools for Math and Science: Interactive tools like GeoGebra (for mathematics) and PhET simulations (for physics) will be integrated to enhance understanding of existing math and science concepts. These tools will be accessible in hi-tech laboratories in middle schools.

This curriculum is designed to make learning engaging and practical, preparing students for a technology-driven world.

Teacher Training and ImplementationTo ensure effective delivery, the Tamil Nadu School Education Department is prioritizing teacher training. Key points include:

Specialized Training: Math and science teachers will undergo training to teach the new subjects, with feedback used to refine the syllabus.  

Industry Collaboration: A recent meeting with industry experts helped shape the syllabus, ensuring relevance to current technological trends.  

Infrastructure Support: Hi-tech labs in middle schools will provide access to necessary tools and technologies.

This structured approach aims to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application.

Building on Existing InitiativesThe new curriculum builds on the success of the Technology Education and Learning Support (TEALS) program, a collaboration with Microsoft.

TEALS introduced advanced technologies to over 100 schools, benefiting 38,000 students in Classes 6 to 9. The expanded curriculum will scale these efforts, reaching more students and integrating cutting-edge tools.

Why This Matters for Tamil Nadu’s StudentsBy introducing computer science, AI, and coding at the middle school level, Tamil Nadu is fostering digital literacy, critical thinking, and innovation.

These skills are essential for careers in technology, engineering, and data science, aligning with India’s push for a Digital India. The use of interactive tools like Scratch, GeoGebra, and PhET will make learning engaging, while exposure to AI and robotics will prepare students for emerging industries.