February 14, Colombo (LNW): In a significant move towards modernizing education, the Sri Lankan government, led by President Ranil Wickremasinghe in his roles as the Minister of Technology and the Minister of Education, has received Cabinet approval to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) courses into the school curriculum. The initiative, supported by Microsoft, aims to enhance students’ skills in AI and aligns with the government’s commitment to embrace technological advancements in education.
Transport, Highways, and Mass Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardena, the Cabinet Spokesman, announced the decision during the weekly Cabinet media conference at the Government Information Department. The approval comes following a proposal put forth by President Wickremasinghe, and the Cabinet of Ministers endorsed the pilot project.
The decision to introduce AI courses in general education aligns with the recommendations of a task force appointed for the formation of a national strategy and plan related to Artificial Intelligence. In October 2023, the Cabinet of Ministers deemed it appropriate to implement the proposed courses, emphasizing the importance of integrating AI education into the curriculum.
As part of the strategic plan, a pilot project is set to commence, focusing on revising the international syllabus currently employed by the Microsoft Institute. The National Institute of Education will provide recommendations for the curriculum revision. The pilot project will initially be introduced for Grade 8 students in schools equipped with the necessary basic human resources.
To facilitate the project, selected schools will undergo digitization with support from the Microsoft Institute. Additionally, 100 Information and Communication Technology subject teachers will receive training as trainers through the Microsoft Institute.
