Education in 2026: The new year will bring changes to the education system; AI education in schools from 2026...
Education in 2026: As 2025 draws to a close, Thursday ushers in the year 2026. In Indian knowledge traditions and astrology, Jupiter (Guru) holds immense significance. Generally speaking, Jupiter is considered a dispeller of darkness, symbolizing education and transformation. It is believed that 2026 will also reflect this symbolism. For instance, 2026 is being seen as a year of transformation for the Indian education sector, with major initiatives such as the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) education in schools and the establishment of girls' hostels in every district of the country.
Let's explore the changes expected in the education sector in 2026. We will also understand why 2026 is being considered a year of transformation for the education sector.
AI Education from Class 3 in Schools Across the Country
The use of AI is increasing globally. Considering this, the Department of School Education under the Central Ministry of Education is working on a plan to provide AI education in schools across the country. Under this plan, students from Class 3 onwards will receive AI education. This change is expected to be implemented in schools across the country from the academic session 2026-27. However, it is not yet clear whether AI education will be mandatory or optional. Currently, AI education is available as an optional subject for students in classes 9 to 12.
Two CBSE Class 10 Board Exams
2026 is set to witness a major change in the board examination system in the country. The CBSE has already announced that it will conduct the Class 10 board exams twice a year starting in 2025, meaning that in 2026, the Class 10 board exams will be held twice for the first time. The exam held in February will be mandatory, while the exam scheduled for April will be optional. The second board exam will allow students to improve their scores and performance. It is believed that after this trial by the CBSE, other boards may also consider the plan of conducting the Class 10 board exams twice a year.
The Developed India Education Foundation Bill - 2025 will take shape!
In 2026, the country's higher education regulatory system may change. This process began in 2025, with the central government having already introduced the Developed India Education Foundation Bill in Parliament during the winter session. However, this bill has not yet become law. It is expected that the bill will become law in 2026, and once it comes into effect, the UGC, NCTE, and AICTE will cease to exist. It will replace all three.
New textbooks for students in grades 9 to 12
In 2026, students in grades 9 to 12 will receive new textbooks. These books have been prepared by the National Curriculum Framework, incorporating several changes under the New Education Policy 2020. Textbooks up to grade 8 have already been implemented by 2025, and the changes made have already sparked several controversies.
Girls' hostels in every district?
In 2026, the plan to open girls' hostels in every district of the country may materialize. The Union Ministry of Education is working on such a plan. The Ministry of Education is going to send a proposal regarding this to the Union Ministry of Finance. Discussions on this proposal have also been held with the states recently. It is believed that an announcement regarding this may be made in the budget. The aim of opening girls' hostels in every district is to increase the number of female students in STEM fields.
Tracking of failed students to prevent school dropouts
The Union Ministry of Education is also working on an important plan to prevent school dropouts, under which students who fail the 10th and 12th board exams will be tracked. This will encourage students who fail to pass the 10th and 12th grades. A plan is being worked out to open an NIOS branch in every school for this purpose. This initiative may begin in 2026 with PM Shri schools.
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